The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has provided Fiji with emergency telecommunication equipment to be used to support relief and coordination efforts in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Winston.
Attorney-General Hon. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum today received 20 Iridium satellite phones and five Broadband Global Area Networks (BGNA) from ITU representative, Orhan Osmani in Suva.
The AG thanked the ITU for coming to Fiji’s aid, especially when communication links have suffered extensive damage in most areas around the country.
“The assistance will help National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) re-establish communications to ensure timely intervention and support for the cyclone victims,” AG said.
“This equipment will also assist in rescue and rehabilitation efforts and receive information from remote areas about the extent of damage sustained.”
Mr Osmani said communications is a critical service in current circumstances and the ITU recognised the urgent need for re-establishing contacts with affected areas.
“The Iridium phones are mainly for voice communication via satellite and the BGNA can be used for data transfers and light media conference for disaster and relief operations. It has world-wide coverage. The equipment will be very helpful for disaster rehabilitation and relief efforts in islands,” Mr Osmani said.
“It is for quick response. It will help to coordinate activities when work is undertaken to fix networks and people can communicate with each other.”