Liberia Issues First VAS Aggregator Licenses to Boost Digital Economy

Liberia has taken a major step toward strengthening its digital economy with the issuance of the country’s first Value-Added Services (VAS) aggregator licenses, a move regulators say will expand access to digital financial tools, mobile services, and e-commerce opportunities.

The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) confirmed that the licenses were granted to two local firms, marking the beginning of a new era for digital services in the country. VAS aggregators act as intermediaries between mobile network operators and service providers, enabling a wider range of products—such as mobile payments, content delivery, data analytics, and fintech applications—to reach consumers and businesses.

Officials said the development aligns with the government’s national digital strategy, which aims to diversify the economy beyond natural resources and bring more Liberians into the formal financial system.

“The issuance of VAS aggregator licenses reflects Liberia’s commitment to building a modern, inclusive digital economy,” said an LTA spokesperson. “This will create opportunities for entrepreneurs, boost innovation, and expand the reach of essential services from health to finance.”

Industry observers believe the move could improve financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas where traditional banking services remain limited. By fostering partnerships between telecoms, fintechs, and content providers, the new license holders are expected to introduce more efficient mobile money services, digital remittances, and micro-lending solutions.

Analysts also note that the licensing framework could attract foreign investment into Liberia’s growing technology sector, as global service providers look to partner with locally licensed aggregators.

Liberia joins a growing list of African nations leveraging VAS regulation to strengthen digital ecosystems, following examples set by Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. If successful, the move could make Liberia a hub for regional innovation in digital services.

SOURCE: AGENCIES