MONROVIA – Orange-Liberia, formerly Cellcom, is credit not only for breaking the backbone of the then heavily-entrenched oligopoly attending the Liberian telecommunication sector, it is also celebrated for leapfrogging to glorious heights, beating the not-too-pleasant economic environment in which the GSM companies operate in the country, towering on the wings on innovation, progress and quality service. One of the many testaments about its growth was unveiled Thursday, May 15, in the form of a $10m Icon-16 headquarters complex, which is widely exalted to be more than a physical structure, but “embodiment of a vision our belief in the future of Liberia”. The inauguration of the building was witnessed by a horde of VIPs, amongst them was President Joseph N. Boakai, who heaped practices on the corporation. THE ANALYST MATTHEW TURRY reports.
In an iconic moment that signifies unwavering commitment to Liberia’s digital future, one of Liberia leading telecommunication providers, Orange Liberia yesterday, May 15, 2025 dedicated a state of the art modern Icon-16 headquarters worth of US$10m in Sinkor, 16 Street, Monrovia.
This significant milestone, according to corporate sources, is poised to enhance the telecommunications service efficiency in Liberia, improving internet connectivity for countless users across the country, and triggering staff efficiency.
The ceremony was graced by President Joseph Boakai, LTA Chairman and Minister of Post and Telecommunication, members of the Legislature, industry experts, Orange-Liberia executives both in and out of Liberia, and several sector stakeholders.
Speaking at the dedication ceremony, President Joseph N Boakai said, “Orange has been a key partner in this country and I am witness to the contribution when Orange first Cellcom”.
According to the Liberian leader, “The coming of Celcom to the Liberian market brought a lot of changes.
“The days when LoneStar was operating singlehandedly, we had an experience. When Celcom which is now Orange-Liberia came into the market, we saw very big changes into this country in terms of infrastructures, lot of dramatic changes took place here,” he said.
He added: “Until that time, we didn’t know how much we were been suppressed. We are very grateful to Orange Liberia today for this new edifice. I want to say here that no one comes to the belief that anything is too good for Liberia; we want the best of everything here.”
He said it was time that Liberians change their minds to make sure that the country is not just open to business, “but that we are open for quality business; we are open for transparency; we are open for good partnership with respect”.
The president said Liberia needs investors that have confidence in the country, and that can invest without fear to make sure that “we all enjoy the comfort of good communication, good edifices, and good relationship”.
According to him, Orange-Liberia has always been a good competitor, a progenitor of huge competition on the market, attracting public confidence, and triggering relatively improved services.
“We want Orange-Liberia to be part of our digital effort to make sure the entire country, all of our young people are involved in digital promotion in education,” the Chief Executive noted. “We don’t want Liberia to be left behind. We want to promote the effort even of our physically challenged”.
He expressed commitment to investing in marketers, all sectors of this economy, because, according to him, “that is the only way we will move forward.”
President Boakai told the audience that his government is dedicated to ensure that Liberians are not just recipients but active contributors to the nation’s development.
He applauded Orange-Liberia’s efforts in providing opportunities for local talent, ensuring that the company’s workforce is inclusive and diverse.
For his part, Orange-Liberia’s Zone Director for the Middle East and Africa, Patrick Lefebvre said Icon 16 is not just a headquarters but a symbol of the digital future for Liberia.
Reflecting on the company’s journey since it acquired Celcom Liberia in 2016, Lefebvre indicated how the company has consistently aimed to be more than just a telecommunications provider.
He said the company has positioned itself as a development partner, focusing on expanding access to connectivity, education, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion across Liberia.
He said the new headquarters stands as a symbol of the company’s ongoing commitment to the socio-economic development of Liberia, setting a benchmark for future infrastructure investments.
“This new headquarters is more than just an office building,” Lefebvre said. “It is a representation of our shared journey, one of partnership, progress, and purpose.”
Also speaking at the occasion, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), Chairman, Abdullah Kamara, who emphasized that Orange-Liberia’s investment is a strong signal of the country’s digital potential, showcasing the telecommunications sector’s transformation.
“Today, we unveil one of the most modern high-tech corporate buildings in Liberia. This headquarters is not just a corporate achievement; it represents an investment in innovation and a commitment to the people of Liberia,” he said.
He praised Orange Liberia for believing in the country’s transformative capacity and underscored how the new facility sets a high standard for the industry.
Kamara further noted that this development signals to the world that Liberia is open for business, particularly in the digital sector, and is ready to lead the way in West Africa.
Also giving remarks, Minister of Post and Telecommunications (MoPT), Sekou M. Kromah, praised the inauguration as a step forward in Liberia’s digital transformation.
He reminded the audience that President Boakai’s vision, articulated in the 2024 launch of the Digital Transformation Program, includes expanding connectivity to every part of the country.
Minister Kromah also assured that the Ministry would work to put legal and policy frameworks in place to guide and protect the digital space while attracting future investments.
“We are excited about this new phase of growth, and we encourage Orange Liberia to continue expanding into underserved regions like the southeast,” he said.
He also called on other telecom companies to follow suit and contribute to making Liberia a model of technological progress in the region.
The modern headquarters, valued at $10 million, is set to become a focal point for innovation in Liberia. With a host of cutting-edge features, including collaborative workspaces, five fully equipped digital meeting rooms, and a Smart Store—Icon 16 designed to facilitate not just business but also customer engagement and digital solutions.
Other notable features include a state-of-the-art boardroom, an innovation showroom, a 170-seat auditorium, a modern medical clinic, a wellness gym, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Monrovia and the Atlantic Ocean. Eco-conscious features, such as LED lighting and solar energy plans, make it a model of sustainability.
The facility will house over 400 employees under one roof, increasing operational efficiency, enhancing synergy, and improving customer service.
Trending
- Boakai Seeks Africa’s Global Recognition -As He Speaks At MEDays Forum in Morocco
- Speaker’s ‘Jail’ Threats Ignite Press Freedom Alarm -As PUL Condemns Utterance
- Stakeholders Chart MFDP’s 5-Yr. Vision -Debate Ministry’s Ambitious Reforms to Transform Economy
- Liberia Sets Sights on IMO Council Re-election -Minister Nyei Makes Strong Case at 34th Assembly
- The Burden of Wrong Confirmation
- Senate Fears Budget Shortfall -Grills Officials on $1.2b Budget, Zooming in on AML $200m, Others
- Final Push for Re-election At 34th IMO Assembly -Liberia Showcases Reasons for Bid, Deposits Instrument
- Cllr. Wesseh Animates Lawyers At Mont. Bar Convention -Wants Emphasis Placed on ‘Rule of Law’ Amid Challenges
- Prevailing Woes Draw Nostalgia for EJS -Bility Reflects on Sirleaf’s ‘Golden’ Tenure
- Dillon Stands Firm Against Oranto Deal -Unleashes Blistering Scrutiny at Public Hearing
Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
Comments are closed.