Digicel Fiji has signed a landmark Universal Service Obligation (USO) contract with the Telecommunications Authority of Fiji (TAF), initiating the deployment of essential mobile and digital connectivity services to historically underserved communities within the Lau Group.

The execution of this contract represents a major milestone in achieving Fiji’s national vision of universal digital access. It includes provisions for deploying robust infrastructure, notably integrating government-led satellite Wi-Fi infrastructure (utilizing Starlink technology) to deliver more comprehensive service reach.

Telecommunications Authority of Fiji’s Chairman of the Board, Mr. David Eyre said, “Universal connectivity is a critical enabler of inclusive economic and social development and is a core objective of the Government’s national digital development agenda. 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 reach of telecommunications networks.”

This deployment across communities in the Lau Group will support economic participation, entrepreneurship and improved access to essential services for communities, households and businesses, regardless of location or circumstance. “TAF acknowledges the role of Digicel Fiji in delivering this connectivity as part of the USF programme and pursuant to its statutory mandate under Government policy and legislation remains committed to ensuring that no community is left behind, regardless of geography or remoteness.”, said Mr Eyre.

Digicel Fiji CEO, Mr. Farid Mohammed, said; “We are incredibly proud to be part of serving connectivity withion the Lau Group. This is a leap forward towards the goal of ensuring that almost everyone in the country has access to mobile coverage. Leaving no one behind is central to building a digital future for Fiji.”

The project, a close collaboration between Digicel Fiji, TAF, and the Ministry of Finance (MoF), is designed to ensure that the technology deployed is both robust and suitable for Fiji’s remote geography. This includes Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for services reliant on external satellite infrastructure, demonstrating 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. By expanding communications services, we are making access available to vital digital tools that will drive economic growth, increase healthcare access, enhance educational opportunities, and open doors to financial inclusion for thousands of Fijians,” Mr. Mohammed added. “We are excited to continue our collaborative partnership with the government and the regulator to turn this vision into reality.”

This USO deployment reaffirms Digicel Fiji’s role as a dedicated telecommunications partner in collaboration with the regulator and government to help them to bring universal connectivity, empowering people and communities in what were previously unconnected or under-resourced areas.

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