New contracts to expand internet access nationwide

Internet and mobile network access in rural and maritime areas will be improved following the signing of Universal Service Obligation (USO) contracts between the Telecommunications Authority of Fiji (TAF), Digicel Fiji and Telecom Fiji Limited (TFL).

The contracts support service delivery under the Universal Service Scheme (USS), which is funded through the Universal Service Fund (USF).

TAF chairman David Eyre said universal connectivity was a critical enabler of inclusive economic and social development.

“Through the industry-funded Universal Service Fund, established under Government policy and administered by TAF, remote and maritime communities are being connected to digital markets, services and opportunities that were previously beyond the reach of telecommunications networks,” Mr Eyre said.

Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua said the USS project was a key initiative under the Government’s National Digital Strategy to expand connectivity and promote digital inclusion.

“This New Year marks an important step in bringing meaningful connectivity to rural and maritime communities,” Mr Naivalurua said. “The initiative will allow Fijians to stay in touch with family, access essential services and open new opportunities for their communities.”

Digicel Fiji chief executive officer Farid Mohammed said the project was designed to ensure technology deployed was robust and suitable for Fiji’s remote geography.

This includes service level agreements for services reliant on external satellite infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to high-quality service delivery.

“Connecting remote and underserved communities, such as those in the Lau Group, is the core objective of this project,” Mr Mohammed said. “By expanding communications services, we are enabling access to digital tools that drive economic growth, improve healthcare access, enhance education and support financial inclusion.”

Telecom Fiji Limited chief executive officer Charles Goundar said the agreement was about equity and opportunity.

“Through the USS, we are delivering practical and resilient connectivity solutions to communities that have been digitally excluded for far too long,” Mr Goundar said. “By combining Starlink satellite technology with managed Wi-Fi and a community ownership model, we are ensuring connectivity is sustainable, affordable and impactful.”

Under the project, Digicel Fiji will provide services to 33 communities in Lau Province, benefiting more than 3,200 people. TFL will serve 30 communities across Lomaiviti, Namosi and Navosa, reaching more than 2,600 people.

The deployments form part of a wider national programme to extend connectivity to 240 communities nationwide, benefiting an estimated 23,000 Fijians.

Feedback: laiseana.nasiga@fijisun.com.fj