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Leading Connectivity at the Edge of the World: A CEO’s Vision for Digital Kiribati
In Kiribati, connectivity is not a luxury, it is a lifeline.

Spread across 33 islands and over 3.5 million square kilometres of ocean, the nation faces some of the most complex telecommunication’s challenges in the world. For the Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone Kiribati Mr. Kamlesh Sharma, this reality represents not only a technical challenge, but a national responsibility.

“Telecommunications in Kiribati is far more than business. It powers education, healthcare, banking, and national development,” he said. “Our role is to ensure that no community is left behind, regardless of how remote it may be.”

Currently, Vodafone Kiribati provides network coverage to approximately 87% of the population, with a clear and ambitious target to increase this to 95% within the next 18 months. This expansion is being achieved through the rollout of new network infrastructure across the Outer Islands, including Abemama, Marakei, Abaiang, and Kiritimati (Christmas Island) as well as South Tarawa, extending enhanced 4G+ services to communities that have historically experienced limited connectivity.

Recognising that infrastructure alone is not sufficient, Vodafone Kiribati continues to prioritise innovation as a key pillar of its strategy.

A significant milestone was achieved in December 2025 with the integration of satellite-based connectivity through BNL’s Starlink Community Gateway. By leveraging Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology, Vodafone Kiribati has enhanced network performance, reduced latency, and improved the overall customer experience across the islands. Customers now have access to high-speed, unlimited connectivity through Vodafone-managed Starlink services.

This progress is further strengthened by the East Micronesia Cable (EMC) fibre optic system in Tarawa, which is currently in its testing phase and is scheduled to go live in May 2026. As a key partner alongside BNL, Vodafone Kiribati is enabling access to high-capacity fibre connectivity and will serve as a primary provider of fibre services in South Tarawa, delivering faster internet speeds, enhanced reliability, and significantly increased bandwidth for businesses, government, and consumers.

Looking ahead, Vodafone Kiribati is currently developing a state-of-the-art data centre, aimed at strengthening national ICT capability and supporting the next phase of digital transformation. This facility will enable advanced services, including value-added offerings and cloud-based solutions, while providing secure hosting and enhanced data management for both public and private sector organisations.

It will also play a key role in improving overall network performance and delivering a better, more reliable digital experience for Vodafone customers.
Beyond connectivity, Vodafone Kiribati is also advancing financial inclusion through its mobile money platform, mPAiSA. With approximately 70% of customers now registered, the platform is playing a critical role in expanding access to financial services, particularly across the Outer Islands. It is enabling secure transactions, supporting economic participation, and bringing more people into the formal financial system.

“These initiatives are part of a broader transformation,” the CEO added. “Digital access is the bridge that connects our people to opportunity, whether it is a student accessing education, a clinic receiving critical information, or a business reaching new markets. Connectivity changes lives.”

Under this leadership, Vodafone Kiribati continues to play a central role in shaping the nation’s digital future connecting communities, empowering businesses, and enabling inclusive growth across one of the most remote regions on Earth.
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South Tarawa Sanitation Project - Social and Behavioural Change Week – 6: - Messages for Dissemination

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