Liberia has entered a new era of digital transformation as Orange Liberia officially launched its Fifth-Generation (5G) network, a historic move that puts Liberia on the global map of countries operating ultra-fast technology. The official launch marks a major milestone in Liberia’s telecommunications sector, transitioning the nation from 4G LTE to 10x faster internet speeds, ultra-low latency, and massive connectivity capacity. Speaking at the official launch ceremony, Orange Liberia Chief Executive Officer, Jean Yao Marius, said the launch is in alignment with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s vision for digital transformation to support and strengthen businesses, entrepreneurs and service delivery for economic development.
“Orange Liberia is here to stay. The introduction of 5G is more than just fast internet, it is a catalyst for national development,” Marius said. “This 5G launch is a statement that Liberia is ready for the future. We are not just launching a network, we are launching opportunities, innovation, and inclusion. Our goal is to ensure digital transformation reaches every Liberian,” CEO Marius stressed.
What Does 5G Mean for Liberia?
Explaining the importance of the new technology, Orange Liberia’s Chief Marketing Officer, Jean Christophe Bobda said 5G will greatly enhance online gaming, make internet significantly faster, and improve overall user experience.
He clarified that not everyone will automatically access 5G, noting that to enjoy the service, customers must use the Max it App, have a 5G-enabled device, and be in a designated 5G coverage area. According to the company, the 5G network will revolutionize key sectors including health, education, business, entertainment, and financial services through Orange Money. It will enable real-time services such as telemedicine, smart farming, online learning, virtual reality, and seamless support for thousands of businesses and startups. Orange Liberia which has been at the forefront of network expansion from 3G in 2012 to 4G in 2016, recently completed the deployment of 128 rural communication sites in partnership with ZTE, extending coverage to over 580,000 rural subscribers.
Regulators Welcome Move
Speaking at the official press conference launch, Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) Board Chairman, Hon. Clarence K. Massaquoi, said the official launch of 5G by Orange Liberia positions the country alongside regional leaders and significantly boosts Liberia’s attractiveness for tech investment, e-commerce, and youth innovation.
He noted that the launch aligns with President Boakai’s vision for digital transformation, thanked Orange Liberia for the milestone, and said as regulators, it is their responsibility to work with service providers to ensure the best services are offered to the people of Liberia. He added that 5G will accelerate businesses and advance educational opportunities with access to faster internet.
Also speaking, Liberia’s Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Sekou M. Kromah said the launch aligns with President Boakai’s vision of training young people for the digital economy. “This is good and will help to put the country on the map. These are things that are helping to position our country with a good image out there. Many countries in Africa don’t have 5G, Liberia welcoming it is a great step,” Minister Kromah said. With this launch, Liberia joins the league of African nations embracing 5G as the backbone for Industry 4.0 and inclusive digital growth.
The occasion brought together industry stakeholders, business people, and content creators who toured the facility and tested different smart devices. One content creator said the launch will help them create content without network interruptions, thanking Orange Liberia for bringing 5G to Liberia.
