Sierra Leone to Update Copyright Act for the Digital Age

Sierra Leone to Update Copyright Act for the Digital Age

The Government of Sierra Leone has announced a comprehensive review of the Copyright Act of 2011. aims to bolster legal protections for creators and effectively address the complexities introduced by the digital age. The announcement was made during the Government Weekly Press Conference, hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on Tuesday, 17 February 2026.

Martina Ebgbenda Esq., Administrator and Registrar-General, highlighted that while copyright protection is automatically conferred upon the creation of a work, voluntary registration offers significantly stronger legal recourse in the event of infringement. The current review is designed to bring the Act into closer alignment with international best practices and expand its jurisdictional scope to encompass rapidly evolving digital and creative industries.

"Registration is granted after a 60-day gazetting period without objection. This review will ensure that the legislation more effectively safeguards creators within the digital landscape and enhances the enforceability of rights," Ebgbenda stated.

The Ministry emphasized that the updated legislation will provide artists, musicians, writers, and other creative professionals with a clearer, more robust framework for the ownership, registration, and enforcement of their intellectual property rights.

This action underscores Sierra Leone's commitment to modernizing its legal infrastructure for the creative sector, thereby fostering innovation and ensuring that creators can fully capitalize on their work in both domestic and international markets.

The Government strongly encourages all stakeholders within the creative industry to actively participate in the review process and utilize the option of voluntary copyright registration to protect their creations.