Orange-Liberia to Inaugurate US$10M ICON-16 Building Today -Calls it Embodiment of Vision Anchored in Liberia’s Future

By H Matthew Turry

MONROVIA – Orange Liberia, one of the country’s leading digital service providers, is set to officially open its iconic new headquarters, Icon 16, on today Thursday, May 15, 2025.

The US$10 million headquarters which is located on 16^th Street, Sinkor, Tubman Boulevard, represents a bold new chapter for the company.

At a press conference on Monday, CEO Jean Marius Yao, described the new headquarters as more than just a physical structure, but an embodiment of a vision anchored in Liberia’s future.

“This is the embodiment of a vision, our belief, in the future of Liberia,” Yoa said. “Under the theme ‘The Future is Here,’ we celebrate progress, people, and purpose.”

The Orange-Liberia CEO emphasized that the building is a symbol of Orange Liberia’s long-term commitment to the country.

“Why build this new headquarters? Because Liberia deserves infrastructure built to the highest international standards,” he said. “Icon 16 is a source of national pride—a place that says to every Liberian, yes, it is possible.”

Yao explained that Icon 16 reflects the company’s dedication to being a long-term partner in Liberia’s development and aligns with Orange Group’s ambition across Africa: to lead digital transformation, promote sustainable innovation, and ensure inclusive growth.

“Our employees and customers are our greatest assets. This new headquarters was created as a world-class hub for collaboration, innovation, and growth,” he emphasized.

He described the facility as a people-centered space designed to uplift employee well-being and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

He noted: “Icon 16 houses Liberia’s largest smart store and includes collaborative work spaces, seven digital training and meeting rooms, an innovation showroom, a medical clinic, a wellness gym, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Monrovia and the Atlantic Ocean, and more – all within a sustainable, solar-ready structure featuring 1,400 square meters of glass.”

He said the office complex is not just a workplace; it’s a catalyst for innovation and a driver of Liberia’s digital transformation.

“Bringing over 400 Orange Liberia staff under one roof, Icon 16 is designed to foster collaboration, enhance internal synergy, and boost efficiency. This environment will spark new ideas and accelerate our mission to connect every Liberian,” said Yao.

As Orange Liberia prepares to welcome guests, partners, and dignitaries for Thursday’s inauguration, Yao extended heartfelt thanks to all who contributed from planners and architects to engineers and government stakeholders.

“This building reflects who we are. It is bold, caring, and responsible. It shows how we care for our people, our staff and our customers. As we open our doors to the world, we invite Liberia to celebrate with us,” he said.

Orange Liberia has invested over US$250 million in its infrastructure since 2016 and paid more than $291 million in taxes.

The company’s impact extends far beyond technology through services like Orange Money and Orange Energy, and through its foundation, which supports health, digital education, and culture.

Reflecting on Orange’s journey from Cellcom to its 2016 rebranding, Yao said, “Icon 16 marks another milestone, a testament to how far we’ve come and what we aim to achieve.”

He pledged an additional $200 million in investments over the next six years.

“We believe in Liberia—its youth, its entrepreneurs, its future. Let’s build it together,” he said.

For his part, Orange Liberia Human Resource Manager, John Steward, told the gathering that on Thursday, May 16, 2025, Liberians will not only witness a ceremony, but stand with them to inaugurate their new office, which is a space designed not just to house their operations but to inspire excellence, foster collaboration, and propel their vision.

He said it will be the preferred Liberian multi-service operator and partner of choice for digital, financial, energy and social inclusion, while respecting ethics and the environment.

“Viewing it through the lens of those responsible for our prime asset, people, this building is more than just a physical structure. It is a symbol of our shared aspirations, a tangible representation of our growth, and a testament to the relentless dedication of every member of the Orange-Liberia and Orange Money Liberia family,” he said.

According to him, the new headquarters is designed for those who believe in a digitally responsible world and a space where employees can thrive, innovate, and continue the exceptional work that has brought us to this moment.

Also speaking, the Architect, Nader Ayoub, who led the design of Icon 16, praised the project as a cornerstone of Monrovia’s urban transformation.

“This building is not just about technology. It represents economic growth, job creation, and modern urban development.

“Most of the labour, from engineers to workers were Liberians. We hope Icon 16 serves as a blueprint for how infrastructure can drive national progress,” he said.

 Stating, “It is not a one-time construction; it must be nurtured and cared for to preserve its impact.