Govt. backs lead taken by Bluesky

By Afamasaga Rico Tupa’i 12 March 2017, 12:00AM

Afamasaga Rico Tupa’i 

Minister of Communications Information Technology

Remarks at launch of Bluesky’s 4G


I am honored to have been given this privilege to be part of this great event and to represent our government. 

Bluesky since its inception in 2011 has continuously invested in technology to bring about products and services to our communities.

With the introduction of 3G services across Upolu and Savaii in late 2011 was an indication of their commitment to the Samoan people.   

In so many ways Bluesky has demonstrated their commitment to Samoa and its people. Year on year investments on their mobile network, improving the Fibre network in Apia, the Introduction of Moana TV are a few that are significant technology advancements.

Furthermore the dividend payments to UTOS, the local share holder is an indication of Bluesky’s commitment to giving back to the community. 

Bluesky has extended their involvement with the community by way of supporting our much loved Manu Samoa Rugby team, the Miss Samoa Pageant, Samoa cancer Society and Samoa victims group. All of these show case a committed organization to its people and customers.    

All of this comes at NO better time than now, as we, the government is making every effort to make Samoa the hub of the Pacific. The Government has always been committed to making connectivity possible to ensure we deliver to our people.

The government’s commitment on the Tui Cable Project and Pacific Cable Project are indictors of Samoa’s goals to bridge the digital divide.   

We have only a few affluent members of our community that enjoy the benefit of having internet, this is solely because of the operators needing to pay large sums to satellite operators to bring this service to Samoa. With internet penetration as low as 7% in households in 2011, is very low, when we compare to our Pacific island neighbors.   

With Governments plans to connect Samoa these services would be affordable to many.

Therefore the launch of 4G plus by Bluesky is extremely relevant and timely. I am told that with this launch Bluesky would also offer 100% - 3G coverage in all its coverage areas. 

This is a significant investment by Bluesky and is an indication of its intentions to continuously invest in Samoa in a growing economy. The government has made major strides to invite investors to our shores and we are glad that Bluesky has taken a lead role in displaying their confidence. 

Finally, we wish Bluesky the very best. Fa’afetai lava.

By Afamasaga Rico Tupa’i 12 March 2017, 12:00AM
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