Pacific Island inhabitants have an abundance of surf, sand, and sunny weather but mobile broadband resources can be scarce. As Developing Telecoms reports, different nations share the same goal but are taking different approaches to getting connected. Some companies, like Digicel, are already operating in the region. New investors are weighing the challenges of working in underdeveloped regions with unpredictable weather, against the wealth of opportunity that could be introduced by connectivity.
Fiji, for example, is the second largest of the Pacific island nations but is at the top of the list for broadband delivery. Amalgamated Telecom Holdings is headquartered in Fiji and has helped push that country towards 5G readiness. Knowing that connectivity ushers in job growth as well as medical and educational opportunities, industry analysts are keeping a close eye on Fiji.
Papua New Guinea boasts the highest population in the region, but only 30 percent of its residents have reliable broadband access. With help from the international community, including the extension of submarine cables to the nation, 4G connectivity is slowly gaining traction, reports Developing Telecoms.
The Solomon Islands are still operating primarily at the 3G level but are exploring different wireless options. Submarine cable is making its way ashore, providing some assistance. The nation is also investigating satellite service as a way to quickly boost connectivity.
Independent telecommunications research and consultancy company, BuddeComm, has prepared an extensive report comparing broadband conditions in Pacific island nations. Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Samoa are the locations most highly scrutinized. More details are available here.
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