The Government has announced plans to build 13 new telecommunications towers across Torba Province in a major effort to improve mobile network coverage in some of Vanuatu’s most remote communities.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Jotham Napat, who is also responsible for telecommunications, during his recent visit to Torba. The project is expected to address long-standing communication challenges experienced by residents since Vanuatu gained independence in 1980.
Prime Minister Napat said he wanted to ensure the announcement was based on confirmed commitments rather than promises.
“I have been coming to Torba since 1995, and I know the hardships people face because of poor telecommunications. Before travelling here, I instructed my officers that I did not want to come and make promises that could not be delivered. They confirmed plans for 12 towers, and I requested that one more be added to include Mere Lava, bringing the total to 13.”
The proposed towers will provide coverage across Torres, Ureparapara, Mota Lava, Mota, Vanua Lava, Gaua and Mere Lava, significantly expanding access to mobile communication services throughout the province.
President of the Torba Provincial Government Council, Roy Adams, welcomed the announcement and thanked the Government for prioritising telecommunications development in the province.
“Torba Province sincerely thanks the Government for this announcement. This project will greatly benefit our people.”
Prime Minister Napat said the Government’s current stability provides an opportunity to deliver long-overdue development projects to underserved communities.
“We must change the way things have been done so history does not repeat itself. While the Government is stable, we have the opportunity to deliver development to the places that need it most.”
VBTC News has also confirmed through the Public Relations Officer in the Prime Minister’s Office, Kiery Manassah, that the planned telecommunications towers will form part of the Vodafone Vanuatu network expansion.
