Sierra Leone could gain $108 million from AI
A new study ranks Sierra Leone 33rd out of 56 Commonwealth nations in AI readiness, identifying youth employment opportunities.
Sierra Leone could see its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rise by US$108 million over the next decade through adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to a new study. The 2026 Commonwealth Youth AI Readiness Index, released on Thursday, November 5, 2026, found that AI adoption could boost economic growth, youth employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
The Ayre Think Tank study ranked Sierra Leone 33rd out of 56 Commonwealth countries with a score of 43.6, below the 53-point benchmark. Researchers noted significant opportunities for strengthening the economy by investing in digital infrastructure, practical technological skills, and youth-led innovation, despite challenges like limited electricity reaching only 39.2 percent of the population.
An online survey in March 2026 found 79.3 percent of 122 young Sierra Leoneans aged 18-35 used AI tools for academic support, though this was not nationally representative. Calvin Ayre stated that success in the AI revolution depends on governments providing youth with skills, resources, and opportunities for business and employment.