Villagers of Aleang Community in the far west Shortland Islands Constituency in Western Province are now enjoying reliable internet access.
This followed the installation of a Starlink satellite internet system in that community.
This transforming service was facilitated by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Shortland Islands Constituency, Hon. Junior Isikeli Vave, thanks to tax payers money.
The installation, which was completed about three months ago, has now connected the remote community to the outside world for the first time.
Prior to this development, Aleang villagers were beyond the reach of Telekom tower coverage and had limited or no access to online services.
The provision of the Starlink service has significantly improved communication and access to information in the community, bringing wide-ranging social and economic benefits.
According to the Office of the Shortland Islands Constituency, reliable and free internet access is now enabling residents to communicate more efficiently, especially during emergencies such as natural disasters, medical situations and other urgent community incidents.
“The improved connectivity has also strengthened access to health services, allowing villagers to seek medical advice remotely through telemedicine and online health information, contributing to better health and wellbeing outcomes.
“In the education sector, students in Aleang are now able to access online learning materials, participate in virtual classes and connect with educational institutions outside their community, greatly enhancing learning opportunities,” Shortland Constituency Project Officer (CPO), Jonathan Lebo said.
“The internet connection is also expected to support local economic development by enabling farmers, fishermen and small-scale entrepreneurs to access market information, explore online business opportunities and engage with buyers beyond the islands.
“Socially, the service has helped families and community members stay in touch with relatives living elsewhere, strengthening family ties and community cohesion.
“In addition, improved access to online government information and services is promoting greater civic awareness, transparency and engagement within the community,” CPO Levo further added.
The Office of Hon. Junior Isikeli Vave said, improving communication infrastructure remains a key priority in addressing development challenges across the Shortland Islands Constituency.
The office said it is encouraged by the positive impact the Starlink installation has already had on Aleang Community and remains committed to supporting similar initiatives in other remote areas of the constituency.
The project reflects ongoing efforts to improve connectivity as a foundation for sustainable development and resilience in rural communities.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
