Liberia has taken a major step toward enhancing its digital infrastructure with a significant upgrade to the Liberia Internet Exchange Point (IXP). 

Spearheaded by the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) and facilitated by the Cable Consortium of Liberia (CCL), this investment aims to improve internet speed, reduce costs, and strengthen the country’s ICT sector.

The LTA fully funded the acquisition of new equipment, valued at approximately $39,000, to enhance the efficiency, interoperability, and storage capacity of the IXP. At the formal handover ceremony, CCL’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Henry Benson, praised the initiative, emphasizing its role in ensuring faster and more reliable internet services for Liberians.

“The Exchange Point has been instrumental in keeping internet speeds high and reducing latency. This upgrade ensures that we stay ahead as technology evolves,” Benson noted. He highlighted that CCL conducted a comprehensive assessment of the existing system in partnership with LTA to identify necessary improvements, resulting in this strategic investment.

LTA Commissioner Angela Cassell Bush described the upgrade as a critical milestone in Liberia’s digital development. “This is a significant investment in our country’s future. A strong internet infrastructure is key to economic growth, innovation, and global competitiveness,” she stated.

Bush also called for increased private sector involvement, stressing that while the LTA provided initial funding, long-term sustainability requires a collaborative effort. “This is a national asset, and we encourage all stakeholders—ISPs, businesses, and tech entrepreneurs—to take full ownership and maximize its potential,” she said.

The Liberia IXP, first established in 2015 with support from the African Union, had not seen a major upgrade until now. Commissioner Bush highlighted the benefits of an efficient IXP, explaining that it allows local networks to exchange traffic directly instead of routing it through costly international hubs. This reduces expenses, improves connectivity, and enhances service reliability for consumers.

LTA’s Acting Commissioner Abdullah L. Kamara reinforced the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement. “We are committed to keeping Liberia’s IXP updated with the latest technology to ensure efficient and cost-effective internet services for all,” he said. Kamara also revealed that LTA is working on establishing a dedicated Internet Governance department to oversee infrastructure security, regulatory frameworks, and digital development policies.

While celebrating this achievement, stakeholders also recognized ongoing challenges, such as the need for 24-hour cooling systems and sustainable cost-sharing mechanisms. Bush urged collaborative discussions to determine the best path forward, ensuring the long-term viability of the infrastructure.

The LTA encouraged businesses, ISPs, and digital entrepreneurs to take full advantage of the improved IXP, positioning it as a catalyst for digital innovation and economic growth. “This is more than just connectivity—it’s about building a thriving digital ecosystem in Liberia,” Kamara emphasized.

As Liberia continues to expand its digital footprint, this latest upgrade marks a pivotal step toward a more robust and inclusive internet landscape, paving the way for greater opportunities in business, education, and technological innovation.