• Orange Liberia announces $200M investment to expand rural network coverage

• The investment aims to boost customer experience, expand subscriber base, and drive uptake of high-value digital services as traditional telecom revenues stagnate

Orange Liberia has unveiled a $200 million investment blueprint for the next six years, targeting accelerated growth and extensive network expansion throughout the nation, with a particular focus on underserved rural communities.

The ambitious plan was announced by CEO Jean Marius Yao last week during the inauguration of the company’s new headquarters, baptised "Icon 16." The event marked a strategic milestone for the operator. "This is more than just a corporate facility. […] It's a bold commitment to Liberia's digital vision and a symbol of faith in our future," stated Abdullah Kamara, chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority.

This significant investment arrives as telecommunications operators across Africa contend with plateauing or declining voice revenues. Orange is strategically pivoting towards data services and mobile money as primary engines for growth and profitability. Upgrading the network is expected to not only improve the customer experience but also draw new subscribers and stimulate the adoption of high-value digital services.

The initiative expands upon an existing collaboration with Chinese technology giant ZTE to deliver connectivity to Liberia's remote regions. Since acquiring Cellcom in 2016, Orange Liberia has solidified its position as one of the country's preeminent telecom providers, alongside Lonestar Cell MTN. As of early 2025, Liberia recorded 1.84 million internet users, translating to an internet penetration rate of 32.4%, according to DataReportal.

Ultimately, this strategic investment is poised to help Orange reinforce its market standing amidst the accelerating digital transformation and heightened competition within Liberia's telecommunications sector.

By Adoni Conrad Quenum,

Editing by Feriol Bewa