Tarawa, Kiribati- 29/10/2026
Vodafone Kiribati has become an authorised reseller of Starlink satellite internet services, marking a significant development in efforts to improve connectivity across the country's remote islands.
Residents, businesses and government organisations throughout Kiribati could benefit from improved internet access following a partnership between Vodafone Kiribati and satellite internet provider Starlink.
The agreement, announced on 1 September 2026, allows Vodafone Kiribati to offer Starlink's low-Earth orbit satellite connectivity services to customers across the country's 33 atolls and islands.
The initiative is expected to help address longstanding connectivity challenges, particularly in remote communities where establishing conventional telecommunications infrastructure remains difficult and expensive.
Expanding Internet Access Across Kiribati
Kiribati's geographical isolation has historically presented significant obstacles to the development of reliable telecommunications networks.
With islands spread across a vast area of the Pacific Ocean, providing consistent internet coverage remains a major challenge for telecommunications providers.
Through the new arrangement, Vodafone Kiribati aims to extend connectivity options to underserved locations by combining its existing telecommunications infrastructure with Starlink's satellite technology.
The satellite service will complement Vodafone's current mobile, 4G+, fibre and business connectivity services.
Customers will also be able to use Starlink as their main internet connection or as a backup service to maintain connectivity during network disruptions.
Vodafone Highlights Importance of Partnership
Vodafone Kiribati Chief Executive Officer Kamlesh Sharma described the agreement as an important milestone in the company's efforts to improve telecommunications access nationwide.
Sharma said the partnership would strengthen Vodafone's ability to connect communities, businesses and organisations throughout Kiribati.
He explained that Starlink's satellite technology would support the company's existing network infrastructure, particularly in areas where installing traditional telecommunications equipment is challenging.
Local Support for Starlink Customers
Under the agreement, Vodafone Kiribati will provide local assistance to customers seeking to access Starlink services.
This will include advice on available services, coordination of equipment installation, network integration and ongoing customer support.
The arrangement could benefit businesses, government agencies and organisations requiring dependable internet connections for daily operations.
Supporting Education, Healthcare and Economic Development
Improved internet connectivity could also create opportunities for communities across Kiribati.
Greater access to reliable telecommunications services may support online education, healthcare delivery, digital government services and business development.
For residents of the outer islands, satellite connectivity could provide an alternative where conventional mobile and fibre networks are unavailable or limited.
The partnership forms part of Vodafone Kiribati's wider telecommunications improvement programme, which includes investments in mobile network coverage, fibre infrastructure and service development in South Tarawa and the outer islands.
By combining Vodafone's local technical support with Starlink's satellite infrastructure, the company aims to provide more flexible and reliable internet solutions suited to Kiribati's geographical challenges.
The development represents another step towards reducing the country's digital connectivity gap and expanding access to modern communications technology.
This article has been independently rewritten for Tungaru Press based on information originally reported by Islands Business.
