Every year on May 17, the world commemorates World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) – a global moment dedicated to highlighting the transformative power of digital technology. In 2025, Liberia embraced this occasion by launching meaningful initiatives designed to bridge the digital divide, particularly focusing on gender equality and rural connectivity.
This year’s in Saniquelle, Nimba County held under the global theme, “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation,” resonated deeply here at Telecel Liberia. It reinforced our belief that genuine digital progress must be inclusive, empowering everyone, especially women and girls, to fully participate and benefit from digital advancements.
A Strategic Partnership for Inclusive Connectivity
Central to Liberia’s digital inclusion efforts is our strategic partnership with CSquared, aimed at delivering reliable, high-speed internet to underserved communities. Speaking on this transformative collaboration, our Chief Operating Officer, Guggie A. N. Tamba, emphasized:
“On the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, Telecel Liberia remains steadfast in our commitment to bridging the digital divide. Together, we are not only expanding reliable internet access to rural and underserved communities, but we are also creating meaningful opportunities for women and girls to participate fully in the digital economy. At Telecel, we believe that true progress in connectivity must be rooted in equity—ensuring that the benefits of technology empower everyone, regardless of gender.”
Real Impact in Ganta and Beyond
In January 2024, CSquared in partnership with Telecel Liberia successfully launched Liberia’s first open-access backbone fiber network, connecting Monrovia to the borders of Ivory Coast and Guinea. This backbone enabled us to support the rollout of community Wi-Fi hotspots, starting in Ganta and now expanding to Bong and Nimba Counties.
Mohamad Farhat, our Managing Director, highlighted the significance of this milestone:
“Launching public Wi-Fi access in Ganta represents more than just infrastructure development. It symbolizes Telecel’s dedication to making digital inclusion a reality for every Liberian. This project will empower communities, enhance local businesses, and ensure individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, have fair access to education, health resources, and economic opportunities.”
Closing the Gender Digital Divide
Despite significant advancements, a digital gender gap remains a significant challenge in Liberia. Women are statistically less likely to own mobile phones, use mobile money, or have internet access. Addressing this gap is a priority for Telecel Liberia and our partners.
Minister Sekou M. Kromah of Posts & Telecommunications echoed our sentiments:
“This year’s theme underscores the urgent need to close the gender digital divide. Empowering women and girls through digital access isn’t just beneficial – it’s essential for sustainable growth and innovation in Liberia.”
Similarly, Mr. Kouty Mawenh, Board Chair of KCOMM, reinforced this perspective:
“Improving women’s access to technology isn’t merely beneficial; it’s vital for Liberia’s economic and social development. Bridging this gap will ignite new ideas, expand the economy, and pave the way for women to succeed and lead.”
Community Wi-Fi: A Gateway to Opportunity
The newly activated Wi-Fi hotspots in Bong and Nimba Counties are more than technological solutions – they are transformative gateways. Placed strategically in schools, health centers, and community spaces, they aim to boost digital literacy, support economic participation, and offer educational resources to all, particularly empowering women and youth.
CSquared’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, “LetsGrowTogether,” supported by Telecel and KEEP Liberia, has already demonstrated substantial impacts at John Pearson High School in Ganta, benefiting over 1,500 students through a state-of-the-art ICT center.
Lucien N. Gortor, CTO of CSquared Liberia, effectively captured the impact:
“Connectivity acts as a powerful catalyst for change. Working hand-in-hand with the government and partners like Telecel Liberia, we are creating tangible opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, especially for women and girls.”
Building a Digitally Inclusive Future
For us at Telecel Liberia, World Telecom Day 2025 represented not just a celebration but a call to sustained action. Through our partnerships, innovation, and commitment to equitable digital transformation, we’re determined to ensure no Liberian is left behind in our journey towards comprehensive digital inclusion.
Together, we’re shaping Liberia’s connected future – one Wi-Fi hotspot, one empowered community, and one inclusive step at a time.
