THE installation of a new Telekom tower at Nila, Shortlands, Western Province, has been described as a game changer for the country’s far western region.
Most of the residents of Shortlands have expressed their excitement over the benefits of the telecommunication infrastructure following its successful launch almost a fortnight ago.
The much-anticipated infrastructure, recently completed, has significantly improved mobile and internet connectivity in the region.
For years, the remote islands suffered from poor telecommunication services, which hindered efficient communication and affected economic activities.
The new tower promises to address these challenges, allowing people of the region to stay connected with the rest of the country and the world.
Local leaders and community members praised the development, highlighting its potential to boost business activities, enhance education through better access to online resources and improved emergency response capabilities.
“This is a game-changer for us,” Chairman of the FAMOA Council of Chiefs and Trust Board and Chief of Aleang, Lawrence Hotomo told Solomon Star in an interview at the launch.
“Now, we can communicate more easily with family members anywhere in the country and abroad and also explore new business opportunities,” Chief Hotomo said.
Chief Hotomo said the community requested three telecommunication towers.
“So, we are so happy at this moment,” he added.
Chief Hotomo said the installation of the telecommunication towers is part of an initiative to boost security at the border and its spin-off benefits are impacting the entire Shortland islands.
“There are also other infrastructures that we have requested that are still pending and they are for the improvement of the Balalae airport, road access and others that will have tangible mobilization impacts on our local communities,” he added.
The tower installation is part of the national government’s ongoing effort to improve infrastructure across the country, especially in rural and isolated areas.
The Solomon Islands government, in partnership with telecommunications provider, Our Telekom and the Australian Government who funded the Tower project, aims to ensure that even the most remote communities are not left behind in this digital age.
With the tower now operational, Shortlands Islanders are hopeful that this connectivity will pave the way for further development of the national economy.
Meanwhile, Nila, Kariki and Komeleai now have fully operational 3G/4G Ericsson Telecommunication towers.
The Kariki and Komeleai towers will be launched later along with the newly built Wadede tower in Northwest Choiseul, Choiseul Province.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
