Tuvalu Vaka cable will connect Funafuti to the Bulikula system.

Tuvalu Vaka cable Tuvalu is one of the few remaining countries not connected to an international submarine telecommunications cable

Tuvalu Vaka cable

Funafuti, Tuvalu

Signed and Announced

Type:
Telecommunications Investment:
The total project value is estimated at USD56 million (AUD80 million equivalent). Contribution from Australia is up to USD37 million (AUD53 million equivalent). The project is 100 per cent grant funded.

Delivery partners

Government of Tuvalu
Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation
Google
Japan
New Zealand
Taiwan
United States

Tuvalu Vaka cable will connect Funafuti, the capital of Tuvalu, to the Bulikula cable system.

Tuvalu Vaka cable will be the first international subsea cable connection for Tuvalu, and marks an important step in supporting critical telecommunications and improved digital connectivity in Tuvalu.

Vaka embodies the spirit of connectivity and progress, drawing from the cultural significance of the traditional Tuvalu canoe, or "vaka." Historically, the vaka served as a vessel for journeying, trade, and cultural exchange across vast oceans, representing resilience, exploration, and unity. Today, Vaka symbolizes a modern link, a digital bridge that connects Tuvalu to the world. More than a conduit for communication, it is an emblem of Tuvalu's aspirations for growth, development, and shared understanding, carrying the promise of enhanced opportunities and a strengthened global presence for Tuvalu.

The Tuvalu Vaka cable will enable improved digital connections and enhance access to global information and essential services for individuals and communities as well as businesses across Tuvalu.

This will have flow-on benefits for inclusive economic growth and development in Tuvalu, and highlights Australia’s commitment to our development partnership with Tuvalu under the Falepili Union.

The cable groundbreaking in Funafuti, Tuvalu

Tuvalu Cabinet Ministers at the groundbreaking of Tuvalu Vaka cable marking the commencement of land-based works in Funafuti, Tuvalu.

The first subsea cable project for Tuvalu represents a significant milestone in the nation's journey toward digital transformation. This development is a critical step in realizing Tuvalu’s vision of a digitally connected nation, providing enhanced opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic growth. We are committed to delivering the benefits of this advanced connectivity to the people of Tuvalu. We extend our deepest gratitude and FAKAFETAI LASI to our dedicated donor partners.”

Tenanoia Simona, Chief Executive Officer Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation

AIFFP contribution

The total project value is estimated at USD56 million (AUD80 million equivalent). Contribution from Australia is up to USD37 million (AUD53 million equivalent). The project is 100 per cent grant funded.

Impact

The project will have a real impact on the people of Tuvalu, helping to bridge the digital divide by facilitating secure and resilient digital connectivity.

Enhanced connectivity will support economic development, including business development, tourism and management of natural disasters, and the delivery of social services such as education and healthcare in Tuvalu.

The project will provide opportunities to enhance digital inclusion for Tuvalu, including reducing digital inequity and barriers to digital access.

Related content

Tuvalu breaks ground on first undersea telecommunications cable

The AIFFP with Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation marked a significant milestone on 12 November, launching the land-based works for the Tuvalu Vaka cable project, Tuvalu’s first international undersea cable connection.