Telecom Fiji announced that it will deploy Starlink-powered managed Wi-Fi solutions in Namosi and Lomaiviti as part of a new universal service obligation (USO) contract signed with the Telecommunications Authority of Fiji (TAF).
Under Phase 1 of the contract, Telecom Fiji will deploy 30 Starlink solutions across 30 sites in Namosi, Narukunibua, Nasigatoka, Waivaka Namosi and Lomaiviti in Namosi province, and Sawaieke in Lomaiviti province. All sites are being deployed in locations designated as universal service areas (USAs) – remote communities where commercial investment by service providers is traditionally not viable.
The Starlink 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, which Telecom Fiji said will ensure affordability, sustainability, and local ownership.
Telecom Fiji will also train young people within the communities to serve as first responders for basic troubleshooting and maintenance, strengthening community capability and long-term system resilience.
Phase 1 of the rollout is expected to benefit more than 11,000 Fijians, with further deployments planned as the programme progresses, said Telecom Fiji CEO Charles Goundar.
“By combining Starlink satellite technology with our managed Wi-Fi and community ownership model, we are ensuring that connectivity is sustainable, affordable, and impactful,” he said in a statement.
Telecom Fiji signed on as a Starlink reseller in Fiji in July 2024.
