Closing the digital divide in Papua New Guinea: A proposal for a national telecommunications model

We propose a model that could close the digital divide in PNG by integrating mobile with complementary technologies such as fixed network, fibre-optic cables, WiMAX and VSAT among others. Central to this model are the domestic fiber-optic cables installed on PNG Power line poles, those of the PNG LNG partner companies, as well as the PPC-1 undersea fiber-optic cable connecting Guam and Sydney with a branch into Madang providing high speed international connectivity. While the former pair can serve national high speed needs, by facilitating interconnection of complementary technologies, the latter will provide connectivity to the international cloud. The model requires policy and regulatory support for transparent and equitable access to infrastructure enabling high speed connectivity within and between PNG and the rest of the world.