WHILE Internet usage in Fiji continues to rise, accessibility remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural and outer island areas, according to a recent report by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Titled “Assessing Internet Development in Fiji” the report presents major findings and recommendations of the comprehensive assessment conducted between September 2023 and September 2024
“Accessibility continues to be a challenge, particularly in rural and outer island areas where infrastructure is limited,” said the report.
The report notes that urban centres have seen improved internet penetration, but “unreliable connectivity and limited infrastructure pose significant barriers to full digital inclusion.”
In response, Fiji has launched multiple programs aimed at improving broadband coverage, making internet access more affordable, and boosting digital literacy, particularly through public-private partnerships.
“The Universal Service Advisory Committee is tasked with ensuring equitable and affordable access to internet and telephone services.”
Additionally, the country’s Broadband Policy, implemented in 2011, “targets 95 per cent population coverage with minimum speeds of 2Mb/s.”
The report adds that key infrastructure projects are helping to address connectivity gaps.
“The deployment of undersea fibre-optic cables connecting Fiji to Samoa is seen as a major step towards improving internet connectivity.”
Internet usage statistics are encouraging, with the UNESCO report stating that “approximately 87.2 per cent of the population are active internet users, and 76 per cent of households have internet access.”
Social media penetration is also high, with “83 per cent of the population using social platforms.”
Affordability is another strong point pointed out in the UNESCO report with Fiji ranking “third globally for the lowest price per gigabyte of internet.”
Despite these gains, the report cautions that challenges remain in ensuring consistent connectivity, particularly in remote regions, where satellite technology may provide crucial solutions.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated August 16, 2025