Key appointments at Telecommunications Authority of Fiji to be Filled Soon

The head of Telecommunications Authority of Fiji is expected to be named soon.

The telecommunications and radiocommunications regulator advertised the position in January.

The authority also advertised for a lawyer, with the close of application date set for end of this month.

It is among efforts to put in place proper regulations in one of the country’s major industries, said Communications minister Manoa Kamikamica said.

Telecommunications Authority of Fiji has continued without a chief executive officer for sometime, he said.

In 2011, Australian Ronald Box was appointed chief executive officer.

In September last year, a five-member high-powered board was appointed to strengthen strategic direction, governance, and an innovative telecommunications sector.

Their combined expertise would contribute to the advancement of the telecommunications sector in Fiji and the Pacific, the Government said.

“The board of directors play a pivotal role in guiding TAF’s efforts to promote a competitive, secure, and consumer focused telecommunications sector.

“Their oversight and strategic guidance will be instrumental in fostering partnerships with industry stakeholders, facilitating investments in cutting-edge technologies, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards in contributing to shaping the telecommunications landscape in Fiji, ensuring innovation, accessibility, and excellence in services for all Fijians,” the Government said.

The board comprise:

-David Eyre as chairman, regional coordinator Private Financing Advisory Network (PFAN).

-Tomasi Vakatora, vice chair and former chief executive officer for Amalgamated Telecom Holdings (ATH).

-Annie Rogers, former advisor to the Reserve Bank of Fiji governor,

-Eugene Singh, telecommunications professional Eugene Singh, and

-Tupou Baravilala, director-general Digital Government Transformation, Cybersecurity and Communications.

Last year, Ms Baravilala said Fiji’s internet connectivity rate was 95 per cent.

However, her claim was later disputed by fintech operator Sole, which drew from its own experiences in nearby surrounding islands off the mainland, where it continues to role out an online savings platform suited to the traditional communal lifestyle of itaukei.

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