Nabilah S
Tonga is once again experiencing a digital blackout following a new break in its domestic fibre-optic submarine communications cable, caused by a series of strong earthquakes near the Ha’apai island group. This damage, confirmed by Mr. Sosafate Kolo, the Acting CEO of Tonga Cable, marks the second major disruption in less than two months, underscoring the persistent vulnerability of the country’s essential infrastructure.
The cable, which had been operational for just one and a half weeks following a previous expensive repair, has now been cut 41 kilometers from Nuku’alofa.
These repeated cable breaks highlight serious concerns about Tonga’s dependence on a single, delicate connection for its communication needs. While satellite capacity will temporarily provide service for the Vava’u and Ha’apai Groups, this latest interruption underscores the urgent necessity for more robust and resilient infrastructure solutions.
The cable, which had only been in operation for a week and a half following a previous costly repair, has now been severed 41 kilometers from Nuku’alofa. The repeated cable cuts are raising significant concerns about Tonga’s dependence on a single, vulnerable link for its communication needs. While satellite capacity will temporarily provide service for the Vava’u and Ha’apai Groups, this disruption highlights the urgent need for more robust infrastructure.
Mr. Kolo’s acknowledgment that the cable break was anticipated due to the unstable seabed after the Hunga-Tonga Hunga-Ha’apai eruption in 2022 is alarming. If experts foresaw these disruptions, why wasn’t more done to protect Tonga’s essential connection to the outside world? The fact that the cable repair ship had barely left Tonga before being summoned back underscores the precarious situation we find ourselves in.
This recent incident should serve as a wake-up call for local authorities and regional partners alike. The ongoing cable failures not only interrupt daily life and critical services but also raise questions about Tonga’s preparedness for future emergencies. It is unsustainable for Tonga to continually shoulder the financial and logistical burdens of recurring cable repairs, especially given the well-known risks involved.
The urgency to invest in alternative and more resilient communication technologies has never been greater. At the very least, there is a need for more robust and well-protected cable systems capable of withstanding the unpredictable ocean environment.
With the Pacific Forum leaders scheduled to convene in the Vava’u Group this Thursday, this issue cannot be overlooked. Discussions on regional infrastructure resilience should be prioritized, not only for Tonga but for all Pacific Island nations that are susceptible to similar disruptions.
One possible alternative solution is Elon Musk’s Starlink low-orbit satellite service, although its temporary license to operate in Tonga is set to expire in January 2025.
