The AIFFP with Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation (TTC) 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.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks the commencement of land-based works needed to land the telecommunications cable in Funafuti, including the installation of a beach manhole, duct work and cable landing station works.
Tuvalu Vaka cable is an USD56 million (AUD80 million equivalent) project delivered by the Government of Tuvalu, TTC, and Google, and supported by funding partners Australia via the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan, and the United States.
Tuvalu Vaka cable will deliver faster, higher-quality and more reliable internet connectivity for individuals and communities as well as businesses across Tuvalu.
This improved connectivity will significantly boost Tuvalu’s access to digital information, essential services and global communication, with far-reaching impacts on education, healthcare and economic development.
Through the project, Australia is proud to support critical infrastructure development in Tuvalu and lead efforts in bridging the digital divide, providing Tuvalu with a secure and resilient connection to the global community.
Tuvalu Vaka cable will deliver faster, higher-quality and more reliable internet connectivity for individuals and communities as well as businesses across Tuvalu.
Left to right: The Hon. Simon Kofe MP, Minister of Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation, Hon. Panapasi Nelesoni MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Sa’aga Talu Teafa MP, Minister of Natural Resources Development and Hon. Hamoa Holona MP, Minister of Education and Human Resources Development at the groundbreaking ceremony.
Land-based works includes installation of the beach manhole which is where the undersea Tuvalu Vaka cable will terminate.