ABS has reinforced its commitment to the delivery of high-speed connectivity to the remote Pacific Islands and upgraded Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation’s (TTC) network to bolster essential connectivity to its population.
International and inter-island voice and data connectivity in Tuvalu is provided exclusively by the deployment of satellite links. Due to the geographic location and distribution of the nine islands, satellites are the only feasible technology that can provide inter-island connectivity. TTC plans to expand ABS coverage to the rest of the outer islands (Nanumea & Niutao are the last two Islands left) and increase bandwidth. As part of its investment plan for the next five years, TTC is also planning to extend 4G mobile coverage (started this year) to the outer islands using ABS satellite link.
“Through the expansion plans with ABS, we are able to continue the support of critical communications on Tuvalu, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is constantly available to support the needs of our population,” commented Tomalu Talu, Acting COO of TTC. “An increase in satellite bandwidth is considered important at this point of time because it will help meet the rapid demand growth of ICT in the present Tuvalu Market.”
“Due to the remote nature of the Pacific Islands, satellite provides the ideal means of connectivity to link the islanders with the rest of the world,” said Jennifer Blasko, ABS’ EVP of Sales & Marketing. “At ABS, we understand the importance of this connectivity to the Pacific Islands’ economy and the expansion on the islands of Tuvalu to continue the support of critical communications that meet the needs of the population.”