The Honourable Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, accompanied by Commissioner for Persons with Disability, Brima Abdulai Sheriff, conducted an official tour of the newly reopened Orange Digital Centre (ODC) on Alpha Wurie Drive, Hill Station, Regent Road, Freetown. The visit, made at the invitation of Orange Sierra Leone, CEO Sekou Amadou Bah, highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to empowering persons with disabilities through digital skills training.
Orange Sierra Leone, under its corporate social responsibility initiatives, has established a modern digital facility that provides persons with disabilities the opportunity to acquire valuable technology and digital skills. In her remarks, Minister Melrose Karminty emphasized President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to inclusive governance, noting that partnerships with the private sector are essential in creating equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of ability. She commended Orange SL for translating that vision into concrete action, noting that such initiatives reduce dependency while promoting self-reliance.
Commissioner Brima Sheriff echoed those sentiments, praising Orange SL for implementing practical measures that empower persons with disabilities. Drawing on his extensive advocacy experience, he emphasized that true support requires involving beneficiaries from planning to execution, prioritizing dignity over pity. He further stated that Orange SL’s program could serve as a model for other institutions, urging corporate entities to adopt rights-based approaches that align with national priorities and foster lasting social impact.
Speaking during the tour, CEO Sekou Amadou Bah reiterated Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to inclusive development, highlighting the company’s multiple women’s digital centres and training hubs designed to bridge the digital divide. He noted that Orange operates three Digital Centers and two Orange Digital Clubs across the country and expressed willingness to collaborate with the Government to extend those opportunities to additional communities.
Sekou Amadou Bah added, “Orange is in Sierra Leone not only to conduct business but to partner with the Government to enhance digital knowledge and entrepreneurship, positively impacting the nation’s business community. Our inclusion policy is a deliberate strategy embedded in our service delivery mission.”
The visit concluded with expressions of mutual appreciation, reaffirming the shared commitment to building a more inclusive Sierra Leone where every citizen has access to the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
