Naitasiri Province has raised concerns after being excluded from the Fijian Government’s plan to extend internet connectivity via Starlink, as part of the initial phase of the Universal Service Scheme (USS). During the recent Naitasiri Provincial Council meeting, Naboubuco district representative, Ratu Aporosa Navakaroko, highlighted the significant communication barriers faced by residents due to a lack of network connectivity, which hampers development efforts across the province.
In Nasoqo Village, where phone signals are non-existent, Mr. Navakaroko emphasized that connectivity is crucial for accessing modern educational programs and services that are predominantly online. He mentioned that land had been earmarked for the construction of a network tower, yet no action has been taken by service providers to build this infrastructure.
Assistant Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel responded, explaining that while the government plans to deploy Starlink services to select locations in Fiji, Naitasiri is not currently included. The sites were selected based on an existing list, which Mr. Immanuel described as outdated and merely followed due to its official gazetting. However, he noted that there are options to improve connectivity in the short term by acquiring Starlink units independently while awaiting the establishment of larger telecommunications infrastructure.
In addition to connectivity issues, the council meeting also brought up the need for a Public Works Department (PWD) depot in Vunidawa. Waima district representative, Ratu Taniela Rasauturaga, called for its establishment to reduce the long travel times workers face, which currently delays essential road maintenance services in Naitasiri. A landowner has already offered land for the depot’s construction, aiming to enhance service efficiency for the local community.
Concerns were also voiced regarding the deteriorating condition of the Vunidawa police barracks, a sentiment echoed by council representatives in meetings over the years. The inadequate facilities have affected the morale of officers serving in Naitasiri, and additional operational challenges include limited vehicular resources for covering the extensive area of the province.
The meeting further addressed obstacles faced by the Vunidawa Social Welfare office in serving the province’s populous effectively due to equipment issues, causing inconvenience for residents needing assistance. These discussions underscore the need for improvements in public services and infrastructure within Naitasiri, highlighting an urgent call for government intervention and support to address these challenges.