Nabilah S
The Cabinet’s swift approval of Space X’s Starlink satellite services in Samoa came as a surprise. While this move promises improved and more affordable internet access, the specific terms and conditions of the approval remain unclear.
The Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, La’auli Leuatea Schmidt, made an announcement on local television showcasing the government’s efforts for the people of Samoa. However, he did not address how services would be implemented in the country or if internet prices would be reduced for these services. This instance highlights the minister’s interference in the affairs of other ministries, such as the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Office of the Regulator, which should handle such information dissemination.
Consequently, numerous questions remain unanswered: How will Starlink operate in Samoa? What will be the process for retailing their kits? Have the costs been determined? Can individuals who have already purchased Starlink kits from New Zealand continue using them? Does this announcement imply that the previous order by the Regulator regarding Starlink has been invalidated? These inquiries necessitate responses from the appropriate authorities.
There’s optimism surrounding Starlink’s potential to lower internet costs, potentially expanding access. Vodafone Samoa, exploring collaboration with Starlink, aims to bring the service to Samoa pending regulatory approval. However, the profitability factor may influence pricing dynamics, with providers possibly adjusting rates or maintaining competitiveness. Ensuring affordable internet is crucial for economic development, prompting discussions on concepts like free internet, albeit possibly for the future.
In Fiji, internet prices saw a significant reduction following regulatory intervention aimed at lowering line rental costs for telecommunication providers. This move sets a precedent for other nations to consider. The Regulatory Authority confirms that although telecommunication providers have reduced their line rental costs, current prices were approved prior to this adjustment.
In reality, while providers have the ability to lower their prices by submitting new price lists, it’s unlikely to happen given the potential for increased profits with higher prices.
The internet has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, serving as a cornerstone for communication, business, education, and entertainment. However, not everyone enjoys equal access to it or can afford the associated services, highlighting significant societal challenges.
Today, the internet is not just a medium for communication and leisure but also a critical component of the economy. With the shift towards digital currency, it has become indispensable for financial transactions, ensuring accessibility for all individuals, irrespective of their financial circumstances. This is especially crucial for those in poverty who may lack access to traditional banking services.
The internet serves as a vital resource for various demographics, including the elderly and disabled, who rely on online tools for banking and shopping. Free internet access ensures their inclusion in the digital economy. Additionally, online learning has become increasingly prevalent, necessitating internet access for students from all backgrounds to access educational resources. Furthermore, the internet is indispensable for communication and emergency services, as evidenced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Offering more affordable internet access is essential for fostering digital inclusivity in education, commerce, and communication.
The internet serves as a vital resource for various demographics, including the elderly and disabled, who rely on online tools for banking and shopping. Free internet access ensures their inclusion in the digital economy. Additionally, online learning has become increasingly prevalent, necessitating internet access for students from all backgrounds to access educational resources. Furthermore, the internet is indispensable for communication and emergency services, as evidenced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Offering more affordable internet access is essential for fostering digital inclusivity in education, commerce, and communication.
