Nabilah S
Digicel Samoa had organized an elaborate parade, followed by an official program, to celebrate the launch of their 5G network on Thursday.
This was the bid by the communication service provider to usher in a new era of connectivity in Samoa.
The excitement among company officials and eager customers was palpable as preparations for the grand event were underway.
However, unforeseen weather conditions impacted these plans, leading the telecommunication giant to make a difficult decision.
Heavy downpours continued throughout Wednesday, casting doubt on the feasibility of conducting the planned festivities.
On Wednesday night, Digicel Samoa officially announced the cancellation of the launch parade, citing concerns for the safety and comfort of attendees due to inclement weather.
Anthony Seuseu, the Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Samoa, confirmed the decision was made after careful deliberation and prioritizing the well-being of participants.
“We did not want to take any risks with the weather conditions we experienced,” Seuseu stated in an interview with this newspaper.
We promptly communicated the decision through social media and direct emails to all invitees and dignitaries. Unfortunately, some eager customers arrived the following morning unaware of the postponement.
Despite recent challenges, Digicel Samoa remains steadfast in its dedication to enhancing Samoa’s telecommunications landscape. Earlier this week, the company announced the activation of five 5G sites in the Apia CBD, marking a significant milestone in their 5G technology rollout.
These sites, strategically positioned near key landmarks like the Levili Data Centre and Frankie Mall, promise improved connectivity and faster internet speeds for users with compatible devices.
“We are thrilled to lead Samoa’s transition to 5G,” said Seuseu. “This isn’t just about speed; it’s about revolutionizing how our customers experience mobile connectivity. We’re dedicated to continually improving our network to ensure that Samoa benefits fully from this transformative technology.”
Initial tests conducted at the newly activated 5G sites have demonstrated impressive average speeds ranging from 550 to 600 Mbps, with potential speeds reaching up to 1 Gbps under optimal conditions. This leap in capability opens doors to superior streaming, rapid downloads, and enriched gaming experiences for Digicel Samoa’s growing customer base.
Digicel Samoa is looking ahead to reschedule the launch parade and official program for a future date, ensuring their customers and partners can still celebrate this pivotal moment in Samoa’s digital evolution. The company extends an invitation to the community to join them on this journey towards a brighter, faster future powered by 5G technology.
In line with their commitment to accessibility, Digicel Samoa also announced the availability of affordable 5G smartphones in their stores. This initiative aims to democratize access to the latest in mobile technology across Samoa.
