Thursday 28 May, 2026
The Ministry for Information and Communications Technology has welcomed a major commitment from the United States Government to provide US$30 million for satellite internet connectivity, aimed at bridging the digital divide for rural and remote communities.
Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter L. Tsiamalili Jr., OBE, MP, said the announcement followed the second United States–Papua New Guinea Strategic Partnership Dialogue and represents a timely boost to the country’s connectivity efforts.
“I welcome the announcement by the Government of the United States of America of its intention to provide US$30 million for satellite internet connectivity in Papua New Guinea,” Hon. Tsiamalili stated.
The funding will support connections for remote health facilities, schools, disaster centres, and expand access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and global markets.
“This is a timely and practical commitment. For Papua New Guinea, satellite internet can help bridge the connectivity gap for rural and remote communities where geography, cost and infrastructure challenges remain significant,” he said.
The Ministry of ICT is currently developing a National Telecommunications Blueprint to identify connectivity gaps and guide future investment. Hon. Tsiamalili confirmed he has spoken with Secretary Steven Matainaho to coordinate a targeted needs assessment, ensuring the US support aligns with frontline service delivery priorities. These include:
- Schools
- Rural health facilities and health posts
- District Development Authority offices
- Provincial Health Authority offices
- Disaster response centres
- Special Economic Zones
- Rural communities without reliable connectivity
Hon. Tsiamalili emphasized that the Government will work closely with the United States and Starlink during the deployment phase to ensure coordination with national priorities and regulatory requirements.
“Satellite connectivity solutions, both direct to consumer, and enterprise (Starlink Community Hub) will complement, not replace, existing mobile, fibre and other telecommunications infrastructure. Our focus is to use the right technology in the right place to connect our people,” he explained.
The Acting Minister concluded by thanking the United States Government for its commitment and reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s readiness to partner with all stakeholders to expand reliable connectivity to underserved communities.