The new team of leaders at the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications of the Republic of Liberia is poised to bring about a new era of robust and innovative leadership in the telecommunications sector. With a fresh perspective and a commitment to driving positive change, the team is dedicated to improving the quality and accessibility of postal and telecommunications services for the people of Liberia.
Led by a dynamic and experienced group of individuals, the new team is focused on implementing policies and initiatives that will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Ministry. They are committed to fostering a conducive environment for investment and growth in the telecommunications industry, ultimately leading to improved connectivity and communication for all citizens.
With a strong emphasis on transparency, accountability, and collaboration, the new leadership team is determined to work closely with industry stakeholders, government agencies, and international partners to achieve their goals. They are committed to ensuring that the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications plays a key role in the development of Liberia’s digital economy and the overall socio-economic development of the country.
As they embark on this new journey, the team is excited to bring their passion, expertise, and dedication to the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. They are confident that with their leadership, the Ministry will be able to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and ultimately deliver on its mandate to provide reliable and affordable postal and telecommunications services to the people of Liberia.
Minister Worlea-Saywah Dunah and team of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications have concluded a week-long engagement on improving ICT connectivity, digitization and discussion on the provision of a second submarine fiber cable known as the Amilcar Cabral Project which is supported by the World Bank with the World Bank Mission team of experts from Washington DC led by Country Manager Georgia Wallen on Friday, September 15, 2023, in Monrovia, Liberia.
The series of engagements kicked off on Monday, September 11, 2023, at the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications with an assessment meeting on the needs of the telecommunications, ICT and digital services in Liberia and preliminary technical meetings with the Ministry technical team followed by a technical workshop and wrap up technical session at the Ministry.
In welcoming the team to Liberia, Minister Dunah highlighted several key areas of urgent assistance which includes the urgent need for a second submarine fiber cable, the construction of fiber ring to cover the country, the need for a backbone connectivity and digital transformation of the Liberian economy as well as digital migration of services in the country.
He further pledged his leadership firm and strong support in working with the World Bank and partners in ensuring that Liberia is integrated fully into the technological advancement.
For her part, the Country Manager, Madam Wallen stated that the purpose of the mission is to assess and explore the areas of cooperation and support to strengthen and accelerate Liberia’s digitalization program beginning with the support to the Amilcar Cabral Submarine Cable Project which is designed for five countries within the ECOWAS subregion. According to Madam Wallen the project is supported by the World Bank for the countries of Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia; all of these countries have a single access submarine cable which makes it risky for dependable internet connectivity.
In continuation of the engagement with the mission, on Tuesday, September 12, a technical workshop was held at the Mamba Point Hotel with participants from Liberia Telecommunications Authority, the Central Bank and all commercial banks in Liberia, the mobile network operators, the Liberia Telecommunication Corporation (LIBTELCO) and other internet service providers.
At the opening session of the high-level technical workshop, the World Bank both Minister Dunah and Country Manager, Wallen, expressed the urgent need for support to Liberia for the building of its ICT infrastructures and connectivity respectively, including the building of human and technical capacity aimed at putting Liberia on par with global ICT advancement reality in which Liberia is set to benefit from the World Bank. Some of the requests made by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications for intervention include:
1. Amilcar Cabral Submarine Cable Project: The World Bank’s support will facilitate the implementation of this critical project, enhancing Liberia’s connectivity to the global internet network. This submarine cable project will significantly improve internet access, speed, and reliability across the country.
2. Fiber Optic Backbone: The establishment of a fiber optic backbone infrastructure will lay the foundation for a robust and high-speed digital network throughout Liberia. This infrastructure will enable seamless communication and data transfer, empowering individuals, businesses, and institutions across the country.
3. Formulation of a New National ICT Policy: With the World Bank’s assistance, the Ministry will develop a comprehensive National ICT Policy that aligns with global best practices. This policy will guide the strategic development and implementation of digital technologies in Liberia, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and economic growth.
4. Passage of the Cybercrime Law: The Ministry, in collaboration with the World Bank, will work towards the passage of a robust Cybercrime Law. This legislation will safeguard the digital ecosystem, protect individuals and businesses from cyber threats, and promote a secure digital environment for all Liberians.
5. Validation of the Patent Protection Framework: The Ministry, with the World Bank’s support, will validate a patent protection framework to encourage innovation and protect intellectual property rights within Liberia. This framework will foster an environment conducive to technological advancements and attract investment in the digital sector.
6. Revision of e-Government Strategy: The collaboration with the World Bank will enable the Ministry to revise and enhance the existing e-Government Strategy. This revised strategy will streamline government services, improve efficiency, and promote transparency through the utilization of digital technologies.
7. Capacity Building: The World Bank will provide support for capacity building initiatives, equipping individuals and institutions with the necessary skills and knowledge to leverage digital technologies effectively. This investment in human capital will empower Liberians to participate fully in the digital economy.
8. Logistical Support: The Ministry will receive logistical support from the World Bank to facilitate the implementation of various digital initiatives. This support will ensure smooth operations and efficient utilization of resources, maximizing the impact of the collaboration.
9. National Cybercrime Forensic Laboratory: The establishment of a National Cybercrime Forensic Laboratory, with the assistance of the World Bank, will strengthen Liberia’s ability to investigate and prosecute cyber-crimes. This facility
Will serve as a vital resource in combating cyber threats and ensuring a safe digital environment for all.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications of the Republic of Liberia and the World Bank are excited about the potential of this partnership to transform Liberia into a digital powerhouse. By leveraging digital technologies, Liberia will unlock new opportunities for economic growth, social development, and improved governance.
The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications Clarifies Employee’s involved in Drug Trafficking Arrest.
The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications would like to inform the general public that one of our employees, Mr. Stephen S. Daniels, has been arrested by the Liberia National Police. We would like to clarify that Mr. Daniels is assigned as support staff in the office of the Human Resources Department of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications and has no connection whatsoever to any Postal operation activities within the Ministry.
The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications would like to assure the public that the smooth functioning of mail and postal services remain a top priority. We want to emphasize that the Inspectorate Department of the Ministry is fully in charge of overseeing the operations and ensuring the continued efficiency and reliability of our postal services.
Furthermore, The Ministry is committed to cooperating fully with the Ministry of Justice, The Liberian Drugs Enforcement Agency, and other relevant security agencies in their investigations. We believe in upholding the law and maintaining the highest standards of integrity within our organization.
We urge the public to remain calm and trust that the appropriate authorities are handling the situation. Towards this end, we would like to ensure the general public that our Ministry will continue to provide uninterrupted postal services to the citizens of Liberia, ensuring that their communication needs are met efficiently and effectively.
The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications says, it is collaborating with the World Bank on a transformative project aimed at building a digital Liberia. This partnership seeks to unleash future development by harnessing the potential of digital technologies and connectivity to drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the overall well-being of the Liberian people.
The project, titled “Building a Digital Liberia: Bringing Vision and Transformation for Unleashing Future Development,” will focus on expanding access to affordable and reliable digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy and skills development, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital sector.
The collaboration is expected to bring the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications and the World Bank together to develop a comprehensive roadmap for Liberia’s digital transformation. This roadmap will outline strategic initiatives and policy frameworks to ensure the effective implementation of digital technologies across various sectors, including Digital education, Infrastructure Development, E-Government, and Cyber Security.
As part of this partnership, a workshop will be held on September 12, 2023, serving as a platform for strategic discussions and planning. The workshop will bring together key stakeholders from government agencies, private sector entities, civil
Society organizations, and development partners to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collectively shape the future of Liberia’s digital landscape.
The workshop will provide an opportunity for participants to explore innovative approaches, identify potential challenges, and devise solutions to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies in Liberia. It will also serve as a forum for fostering collaboration, building partnerships, and mobilizing resources to support the implementation of the digital transformation agenda by 2030. The workshop section is also intended to explore new innovation and ideas relating to institutional governance and investment option to make the digital economy a driving force in Liberia.
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications lauded the World Bank for its commitment to supporting Liberia’s digital journey. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to leverage technology for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
During a buildup meeting at the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, the Minister/Post Master General, Worlea- Saywah Dunah, expressed dedication and commitment to ensuring that every Liberian benefits from the digital age.
By building a digital Liberia, our aim is to empower individuals, businesses, and communities, enabling them to thrive in the global digital economy, Hon. Dunah concluded.
The World Bank Country Manager, Madam Georgia Wallen, pledged the World Bank’s commitment to global development in the digital and digital transformation. Madam Wallen said, World Bank stands ready to support Liberia reach the peak of its digital transformation.
The project aligns with the World Bank’s mission to end poverty and boost shared prosperity by harnessing the power of technology and innovation.
Today, an important meeting took place at the office of the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Hon Worlea Saywah Dunah. The meeting was attended by a high-level team of delegates from the World Bank, with the country manager, Madame Georgia Wallen, leading the delegation. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and collaborate on digitally transforming Liberia, with a focus on bringing vision and transportation to unleash future development.
During the meeting, both parties recognized the critical role that digital transformation plays in driving economic growth and development. They discussed various strategies to improve the country’s telecommunications infrastructure, expand internet access, and enhance the efficiency of postal services. The World Bank team shared valuable insights and expertise, offering technical assistance and financial support to help Liberia achieve its digital transformation goals.
The Minister and his team expressed their gratitude for the partnership with the World Bank, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in leveraging technology to unlock Liberia’s potential. They discussed the need for comprehensive planning, policy reforms, and investment in digital infrastructure to ensure the successful implementation of the digital transformation agenda.
Overall, the meeting was productive and laid the foundation for a fruitful collaboration between the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications and the World Bank. The shared vision of digitally transforming Liberia to unleash future development was reaffirmed, and concrete steps were identified to move forward. With the support of the World Bank, Liberia is poised to embark on a transformative journey that will bring about positive change, economic growth, and improved quality of life for its citizens.
MINISTERIAL ROUND TABLE AND POSTAL BUSINESS DIALOGUE
01 September 2023 – Arusha, Tanzania
Nape Nnauye Ikulu Mawasiliano Posta Tanzania ITU Universal Postal Union-UPU Ikulu habari Zanzibar Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority African Union. Thank you, Hon Worlea Saywah Dunah keeping the system better for us.
Through the leadership of the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Worlea-Saywah Dunah, who is also the Postmaster General of Liberia, two donor partners have begun renovations and technical works to restore postal services to citizens in Bomi, Margibi, Bong, Nimba, Grand Gedeh and Sinoe counties by end of October 2023; the Chinese Mission to Liberia is sponsoring the installations of solar panels at nine post offices and technicians from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications are installing equipment donated by the Universal Postal Union in these facilities across Liberia.
The solar panel project is being implemented by the BounceBand Corporation, an international renewable energy and solar expert company with vast expertise in working in African countries has commenced on August 28, 2023, and will cover the Randall Street Post Office, Tubmanburg, Kakata.
At the same time, the team of technicians headed by the Director General of Posts, Mr. Paul W. Thomas, has started the installation of modern postal equipment at post offices in Tubman Burg, Bomi County, Bo- Waterside Grand Cape Mount County, Gbarnga Bong County, Saclepea Nimba County and other counties across Liberia.
It can be recalled that on June 23, 2023, Minister Dunah visited the Chinese Mission near Monrovia during which discussions were held with His Excellency Hon. Mr. Fan Erwei, the Charge d’ Affairs, on how the Mission can help to revamp rural postal operations and overall contribute to the improvement of the operations of the post offices across rural Liberia.
The Postmaster General of Liberia, Worlea-Saywah Dunah has on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia commended the Government of China and the Universal Postal Union for these contributions which will tremendously contribute to the improvement of postal operations in the county as it will make eight post offices to join online as modern equipment powered by solar energy will give uninterrupted services to the Liberian people in these locations.
Also, Minister Dunah and Director General Thomas have safely arrived in Arusha Tanzania to participate in the 41st Convention of the Pan-African Postal Union and the dedication of the body’s modern offices by the President of Tanzania, Her Excellency President Suluhu Hassan on September 1, 2023.
While in Arusha Minister Dunah’s Delegation will hold discussions and make presentations to various Committees and the Plenary of the PAPU for waiver of Liberia’s legacy arrears and restoration of Liberia to full membership rights after years of suspension.
Minister Dunah initiated a program for waiver of Liberia’s historical arrears to several postal and telecommunications global and regional bodies.
Hon. Worlea Saywah Dunah, Postmaster General of the Republic of Liberia, Hon. Prosper K. Brown, Deputy Minister for Technical Services and Hon. Cyrus Kamara, Assistant Minister for Planning and Research, met with delegations from Rwanda and LRA today.
The Postmaster General of the Republic of Liberia and deputies hold discussion with delegations from Rwanda and LRA today at the office of the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications.
The delegation visit to the Post office is aimed at Readiness Assessment for the setting up Electronic Billing Machine for the Post office.
The Postmaster General, expressed great interest and Welcomed this new development. And also highlighted the importance to have electronic billing machine at government revenue generating institution such as the Post office.
The delegation came in country by the invite of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA).
