THE recent installation of three telecommunication towers in the Shortland islands has not only enhanced connectivity for local communities but also benefits residents of Bougainville in the autonomous province of Papua New Guinea (PNG).
With these developments, residents of Buka Town and surrounding areas can now connect to Solomon Telekom services.
This cross-border telecommunication infrastructure has been hailed as a milestone for improving communication between Solomon Islands and Bougainville, fostering better links for both social and economic activities.
Thanks to the Australian Government and the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) for collaborating and making this happen especially for the benefit from the people and rural communities in the far western border.
The new towers, strategically erected in the Shortlands, serve as a crucial bridge, giving access to Solomon Telekom’s network to communities that previously struggled with connectivity.
The new tower in Komeleai has a strong catchment that can reach out to Buin on Bougainville.
Local authorities and residents have expressed optimism as the enhanced network coverage is expected to boost communication, trade and emergency services in the region.
The strengthened telecommunications links will also support the exchange of information between Bougainville and Solomon Islands.
This development is a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide, promoting inclusivity, and fostering regional cooperation in the Western Pacific.
According to reports, there is also frequent movement from Bougainville into Solomon Islands, especially by people from Buin who are now also using Telekom sim cards.
“People from Bougainville can now have access connectivity through Solomon Telekom network coverage.
‘’They are enjoying the coverage and can connect from their home to Shortland and Taro in Choiseul Province,” a local in Taro station in Choiseul Province, Natu Chris told Solomon Star in an interview.
Mr Natu added that some people from the far western border also crossed the borderline and have carried packs of sim cards to re-sell them in Buin.
‘’I don’t know if this is right but the connectivity through the airwaves is free and people are enjoying it,” he added.
Meanwhile, a total of six new telecommunication towers have been installed in Western Province, Choiseul Province, Isabel Province and the Malaita Outer Islands, as part of a major infrastructure project funded by the Australian Government.
The project, delivered in collaboration with the Solomon Islands Government and Our Telekom, comes at a cost of approximately USD 7.6 million.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
