Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka recently inaugurated the upgraded government quarters for the district officer (DO) in Rotuma and introduced the Starlink satellite internet service at the Government Station in Ahau during Rotuma Day celebrations. This initiative aims to enhance service delivery and connectivity in Fiji’s remote islands.
The commissioning event attracted senior officials, community leaders, and representatives from various development partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which funded the Starlink project as part of the Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific (Gov4Res) Programme. The Australian and Korean governments also contributed to this initiative.
The refurbishment of the government quarters, which cost around $0.5 million, signifies the Coalition Government’s commitment to improving living conditions for those serving in isolated regions. Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized the importance of providing a safe and dignified space for officers, as well as the critical role of internet access in enabling real-time communication with the central government. This connectivity is particularly vital during emergencies.
The Starlink network’s implementation at the Rotuma Government Station is part of a broader initiative to connect 10 rural and maritime government stations throughout Fiji. The goal is to bridge the digital divide, improve coordination in emergencies, and enhance public service delivery in underserved areas, thereby fostering greater socio-economic opportunities.
Additionally, the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management is collaborating with the Reserve Bank of Fiji to deliver financial literacy training tailored for Rotuma’s community, focusing on women and youth. This multifaceted approach is aimed at empowering local communities through both digital and financial resources.
Similar initiatives, including investments in enhancing habitat for public servants, reflect a larger movement toward improving infrastructure and quality of life in rural Fiji. The government’s commitment to these developments symbolizes a hopeful trajectory for the future, showcasing determination to foster stability and progress in marginalized regions.
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