Tuvalu has entered a new digital age with the successful connection of the Vaka Cable, the nation’s first international subsea cable system, which promises to deliver faster, more reliable and more affordable internet to its people.
The historic launch was celebrated in Funafuti alongside the Government of Tuvalu, Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation (TTC), Google and development partners including Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan and the United States. The project represents a major step forward in the island nation’s digital transformation and regional connectivity.
The Vaka Cable links Tuvalu to the Bulikula cable system, establishing the country’s first direct international fibre connection. The project, valued at an estimated USD56 million (about AUD80 million), was fully grant-funded, with Australia contributing up to USD37 million (AUD53 million) through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) under the Falepili Union partnership.
Australian High Commissioner to Tuvalu Rachael Moore said the project underscores Australia’s long-term commitment to supporting Tuvalu’s sustainable development and digital future. “Through the Falepili Union, we are helping ensure that every Tuvaluan can access the opportunities of a connected world,” she said.
Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation Chief Executive Officer Tenanoia Simona expressed deep gratitude to donor partners, saying, “The first subsea cable project for Tuvalu represents a significant milestone in the nation's journey toward digital transformation. This development is a critical step in realising Tuvalu’s vision of a digitally connected nation, providing enhanced opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic growth. We extend our deepest gratitude and Fakafetai Lasi to our dedicated donor partners.”
The Vaka Cable—named after the traditional Tuvaluan canoe vaka, a symbol of exploration, resilience, and unity—embodies the spirit of connectivity and progress. Historically, the vaka carried communities across vast oceans for trade and cultural exchange. Today, it symbolises a digital bridge linking Tuvalu to the global community, empowering the island nation to navigate the opportunities of the digital economy.
Once operational, the cable is expected to improve internet speeds, reliability, and affordability for families, schools, health workers, and businesses across the archipelago. Enhanced connectivity will also strengthen Tuvalu’s disaster response systems, facilitate e-government initiatives, and attract digital entrepreneurship and tourism opportunities.
The project’s long-term impact will be felt across key sectors such as education and healthcare, where better access to online learning and telemedicine services will improve social inclusion and quality of life. By bridging the digital divide, the Vaka Cable stands as a tangible step towards a more connected, resilient, and prosperous Tuvalu.
Tuvalu officially launched of the ‘Vaka’ Submarine Internet Cable. The event was attended by Governor-General Rev. Tofinga Vaevalu Falani and Prime Minister Feleti Penitala Teo, underscoring the national importance of the project, which stands as one of the 21 key government priorities.
The Vaka Cable, Tuvalu’s first international subsea internet connection, is a symbol of resilience and progress — a lifeline that promises faster, more reliable, and affordable internet for families, schools, health workers, and businesses across the country. It represents a critical step in bridging Tuvalu’s long-standing digital divide and unlocking new opportunities in education, commerce, and public service delivery.
“This is a moment that defines our past, present, and future,” said Simon Kofe, Minister of Transport, Energy, Communications and Innovation. “It’s a reminder that, with faith in God, strong leadership, and steadfast partnerships, we can overcome the greatest challenges and unlock new opportunities for our people.”
For decades, Tuvalu has struggled with geographic isolation, limited market access, and the increasing threat of rising seas. The Vaka Cable, however, opens a new chapter — one where digital connectivity reduces barriers to progress and enables Tuvalu to thrive as a modern, knowledge-based economy.
“God has orchestrated this journey,” Kofe added. “It is through leadership like our dedicated team at Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation and the unwavering support from our development partners that this vision has become reality.”
In celebration of the achievement, the Government of Tuvalu announced free internet service nationwide for the day — a symbolic gesture of inclusivity and a preview of its ambition to make connectivity universally accessible. Plans are also underway to double data plans and, ultimately, offer free internet for all Tuvaluans.
The term Vaka — derived from the traditional Tuvaluan canoe — embodies the spirit of exploration, unity, and resilience. Just as the vaka once carried Tuvaluans across vast oceans for trade and connection, the new digital ‘Vaka’ now links Tuvalu to the global community, steering the nation toward a more connected and prosperous future.
“As we celebrate this historic day,” Kofe said, “this moment calls us all to build on this infrastructure, develop our skills, and innovate for a brighter future.”
The Vaka Cable marks not only a technological breakthrough but also a reaffirmation of Tuvalu’s enduring determination to overcome isolation and embrace a digital future grounded in inclusion, opportunity, and resilience.
