Papua New Guinea's telecommunications network expansion is set for greater cooperation between two major operators after Digicel PNG and Vodafone PNG agreed to share selected tower infrastructure.
The partnership was formalised in Port Moresby yesterday through the signing of a Tower Sharing Licence Agreement, giving both companies access to suitable existing tower sites while retaining control over their individual networks and services.
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The arrangement is expected to provide a more efficient way of extending coverage by allowing telecommunications equipment to be installed on infrastructure already established by either operator.
Both companies will assess tower sites according to technical, safety, operational and commercial requirements before equipment is installed.
The agreement is also designed to limit duplication of infrastructure and help operators manage the high costs involved in extending telecommunications services to more parts of PNG.
Mr Goschen said the agreement would help the industry make better use of infrastructure that had already been developed.
“Connectivity plays a critical role in Papua New Guinea’s social and economic development. This agreement is a practical step towards delivering better outcomes by overcoming the many costly challenges that mobile network operators face in delivering mobile and ICT services in PNG.
“By sharing existing tower infrastructure where appropriate, we can expand network reach faster, reduce duplication and costs and maximise the value of investments already made across the country.
“This is a positive example of industry collaboration that benefits customers, communities and the broader telecommunications sector. We look forward to working with Vodafone PNG to help improve access to reliable connectivity for more Papua New Guineans.”
Mr Lal said Vodafone PNG would continue investing in its own network while working with Digicel PNG under the new arrangement.
“This partnership provides an opportunity to make greater use of existing infrastructure and support the continued expansion of mobile services across the country.
“For Vodafone PNG, the agreement complements our ongoing investment in network coverage, capacity and customer experience.
“We are pleased to partner with Digicel PNG on this initiative and look forward to contributing to greater connectivity, digital inclusion and the long-term development of Papua New Guinea’s telecommunications sector.”