Telecom Fiji and the Telecommunications Authority of Fiji (TAF) recently marked a major milestone in Fiji’s digital inclusion journey with the signing of a Universal Service Obligation (USO) Contract, paving the way for improved connectivity in underserved and unserved rural and maritime communities.
The agreement forms part of the Government’s Universal Service Scheme (USS), a flagship national initiative designed to ensure that every Fijian, regardless of location, has access to reliable and secure telecommunications and internet services.
As part of Phase 1 of the project, Telecom Fiji will deploy Starlink Community Managed Wi-Fi solutions to 30 rural and maritime sites across the provinces of Namosi and Lomaiviti. These sites fall within designated Universal Service Areas (USAs)—remote communities where commercial investment by service providers is traditionally not viable.
Phase 1 Communities in Namosi and Lomaiviti Include:
Namosi Province (Central Division):
- Namosi, Narukunibua, Nasigatoka, Waivaka
Lomaiviti Province (Eastern Division):
- Sawaieke (Gau)
The Starlink-powered solution will deliver high-speed satellite connectivity, supported by a voucher-based access model. Selected community members will be trained to manage and sell access vouchers, ensuring affordability, sustainability, and local ownership.
Telecom Fiji will also train young people within these communities to serve as first responders for basic troubleshooting and maintenance, strengthening community capability and long-term system resilience.
Telecom Chief Executive Officer Mr Charles Goundar said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to inclusive national development.
“This agreement is about more than technology; it’s about equity and opportunity. Through the Universal Service Scheme, we are delivering practical, resilient connectivity solutions to communities that have been digitally excluded for far too long. By combining Starlink satellite technology with our managed Wi-Fi and community ownership model, we are ensuring that connectivity is sustainable, affordable, and impactful.”
Mr Goundar added that the initiative will support education, healthcare, disaster preparedness, small businesses, and social connection, particularly for rural and maritime communities.
The agreement will enable cost-effective, resilient connectivity for remote communities, supporting access to education, healthcare, emergency communications, and economic opportunities. Phase 1 of the rollout is expected to benefit more than 11,000 Fijians, with further deployments planned as the programme progresses.