Cryptocurrency is legal in Sierra Leone, though it operates in an unregulated environment without specific laws governing its use. There are no defined laws and regulations regarding cryptocurrencies in the country, as confirmed by exchange control authorities (1). The Bank of Sierra Leone has not yet introduced any legal framework for cryptocurrencies, meaning traders and investors can buy, sell, and trade digital assets without government oversight or official regulation (1).
Despite the absence of cryptocurrency-specific regulations, the government has demonstrated interest in using fintech innovations to boost financial inclusion. Sierra Leone launched a blockchain-based credit bureau to improve credit accessibility for its citizens, and as the country further explores innovative financial solutions, future legislative changes in the fintech sector are expected (1). In August 2019, President Julius Maada Bio unveiled Sierra Leone's National Digital Identity Platform, making it Africa's first blockchain national identification system, signaling the government's determination to be a hub of innovation (2).
"With this technology milestone, we have signalled our determination to be a hub of innovation and a nation primed for new opportunities for inclusive governance and development."
The National Digital Identity Platform was developed to give the country's seven million citizens access to financial services through blockchain technology. The system provides a digital infrastructure to help citizens grant access to approved institutions to assert and verify identity and build credit histories (2). While cryptocurrency remains unregulated, the government's embrace of blockchain for public good demonstrates openness to digital financial technologies, though users should trade responsibly and stay updated on potential legal changes as the regulatory landscape may evolve (1).
Source:
https://wts.com/global/publishing-article/20250407-sierra-leone-exchange-control-insights~publishing-article
https://statehouse.gov.sl/sierra-leone-gets-africas-first-blockchain-national-digital-identity-system/
Last updated: 19-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
