By: Robert Annor
The
Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, through the Sierra Leone
Digital Transformation Project (SLDTP), has launched the Big 5 Artificial
Intelligence and Blockchain Hackathon 2025 at the Christex Foundation in
Freetown.
The
event brings together young developers, engineers, innovators, and tech
enthusiasts from across Sierra Leone to design and build solutions from scratch
using artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies. This year’s edition
is part of the government’s “Big Five Game Changer” initiative, which focuses
on leveraging technology to accelerate national development.
The
hackathon aims to equip participants with hands-on training, mentorship, and
exposure to real-world challenges that can be addressed through emerging
technologies. DeepStack, one of the featured tech stacks, will support teams in
developing innovative applications using machine learning models, blockchain
smart contracts, and hybrid AI–blockchain systems.
According
to the organizers, the initiative underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to
nurturing digital talent, fostering innovation, and strengthening the country’s
position in the global technology ecosystem.
