For an explanation of how to read this resource, refer to the guide at the end.
AI Regulation
There is no regulation specifically governing AI in the country.
Definitions of AI
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal definition of AI.
Core Principles
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal statement of core AI principles.
Public Consultations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of invitations for public input on AI governance in the country.
Existing Legal Framework
A non-exhaustive list of regulations that might affect AI in the country includes:
- Constitution of Sierra Leone1
- Sierra Leone Vision 2025: “Sweet-Salone”2
- Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030)3
- National Innovation and Digital Strategy (2019–2029)4
- Sierra Leone National Digital Development Strategy, dated December 20225
- National Data Strategy, dated January 20236
- National Cybersecurity Strategy (2021-2025)7
- Telecommunications Act, 2006 (Act No. 9 of 2006), subsequently amended8
- Right to Access Information Act, 20139
- Cyber Security and Crime Act, 2021 (Act No. 7 of 2021)10
- Consumer Protection Act, 202011
Human Rights
The UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Its principles are considered universal and applicable to all UN member states. As a member of the UN, Sierra Leone has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of Sierra Leone outlines various fundamental principles of State policy, including those relating to equality and non-discrimination, human dignity, livelihood, and medical and health facilities (Section 8), as well as educational opportunities (Section 9).12 It also includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights, such as Sections 15(c) and 22, which guarantee the right to privacy (respect for private and family life, protection from search of the person or their property, or from entry onto their premises, and protection from interference with correspondence, telephone conversations, and telegraphic and electronic communications). Other protections include the rights to life (Sections 15(a) and 16), freedom of expression (Sections 15(b) and 25), and non-discrimination (Section 27). Sierra Leone has ratified several key international human rights instruments, including the ACHPR, ICCPR, and ICESCR. Additionally, the country has signed but not ratified the Malabo Convention.
Regulators
A non-exhaustive list of regulators that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC)13
- National Communications Authority (NatCA)14
- Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE)15
- Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)16
- Sierra Leone Standards Bureau (SLSB)17
- National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC)18
- Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL)19
- Office of the Ombudsman of Sierra Leone20 1950-
R&D and Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
In May 2025, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education and Agilix Labs, Inc. signed a memorandum of understanding to partner on the establishment of the Future Learning Institute (FLI).21 This initiative aims to support the country’s educational institutions in adapting to a global landscape increasingly shaped by automation and AI.22
Professional/Industry Associations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of professional or industry associations dedicated to AI in the country.
Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of advisory bodies or expert groups dedicated to AI in the country.
Guide
- AI Regulation: The term "regulation", as used in this resource, encompasses measures ranging from binding laws to national AI policies and strategies, government proposals, advisory guidelines, and industry standards that address AI systems and their implications.
- Existing Legal Framework: This section outlines the relevant legal framework, excluding any AI-specific regulations presented in the initial section.
- Human Rights: The following terms have the stated meanings: "ACHPR" means the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, "ICCPR" means the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, "ICESCR" means the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, "Malabo Convention" means the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, "UDHR" means the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and "UN" means the United Nations. Any reference to an “Article” or “Section” of the Constitution is to the version of the Constitution referenced herein.
- Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups: This section excludes legislative and parliamentary committees.
