Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has celebrated the country’s partnership with Google, describing it as a significant milestone in advancing technology and the digital economy for Fiji and the wider Pacific region. During the groundbreaking ceremony for a multi-million-dollar ICT facility in Natadola, Nadroga, he emphasized the project’s transformative potential, which is anticipated to be completed by late 2026.
Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the new infrastructure would establish Fiji as a key hub for digital connectivity in the Pacific. The facility will host Viti Levu’s second cable landing station, which is expected to enhance the resilience of the internet and facilitate Fiji’s transition to a more digital-focused economy. He characterized this investment as critical for connectivity, human development, and overall progress.
The facility will feature cutting-edge data servers and power systems, alongside a new cable landing station designed to connect Fiji with international fiber-optic cables leading to global centers, such as Los Angeles. Google’s vice president of Network Infrastructure, Brian Quigley, referred to the facility as a symbol of innovation and economic resilience for the Pacific Region. He also expressed confidence that the project would help close the digital divide and further Google’s mission to make information universally accessible.
The benefits of the facility are expected to stretch beyond the tech industry, with projections indicating that it will create over 3,600 jobs and potentially contribute around $574 million (USD $250 million) to Fiji’s GDP by 2030. Furthermore, it will provide a boost to various sectors, including Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO), healthcare, tourism, and education.
Rabuka remarked that Google’s investment is indicative of Fiji being open for business and on the path to becoming a center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global trade. Additionally, Google plans to utilize its AI technology to confront climate challenges, including the development of its Flood Hub tool, which can predict floods up to a week in advance, aiding communities and governments in their preparations.
This partnership marks a hopeful new chapter for Fiji’s economic landscape, positioning it not just as a beneficiary of investment, but as an emerging leader in the digital domain of the Pacific region.
In summary, this project stands to significantly benefit Fiji’s economy while enhancing its global digital presence. The expected job creation and cross-sectoral support demonstrate a promising future, especially as the integration of advanced technology addresses both economic and environmental challenges.
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