Vanuatu Government Provides Free Wi-Fi at Independence Park and VNH
In a new public-private partnership, the Vanuatu Government is providing a free Wi-Fi service – HALO – powered by subsea cable owner Interchange Limited (ICL) and available at Independence Park and Vanuatu National Hospital (VNH). Visitors to these areas can now access high-speed internet for free for 30 minutes per day. The occasion was officiated by the Deputy Prime Minister Johnny Koanapo and Chairman of ICL Jean Marie Duffau.
“Internet access is a fundamental part of our lives, which is why we are delighted to be able to work with Interchange to deliver such a valuable service that is accessible and inclusive,” said Director of the Department of Communications and Digital Transformation (DCDT) John Jack. “We are also proud to be keeping up with world standards in terms of services available to data users. Free WI-FI at the hospital will also provide patients and their carers with a small gesture to help alleviate wait times.”
The HALO Wi-Fi service was installed by Interchange which is connected by fibre-optic cable directly to the subsea cable landing site in Mele. This now expands the government E-Network as the government will oversee and develop the HALO service going forward at the hospital – the service will be available in the main waiting area. Individuals at Independence park can also access the service through hot-spot zones covering around 500 meters which was launched for ICT week in Port Vila.
The Wi-Fi service is available to the public for 30 minutes free of charge per day by simply logging in through the Halo Wi-Fi portal on any data capable device.
“The Interchange service continues to grow, with a recent increase in capacity to the existing cable and a second cable on the horizon,” said ICL Chairman Jean Marie Duffau. “It is with great pleasure that we extend our services to government who now expand their services to the general public so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of connectivity.”
Capacity and content available to users on the government network are partially limited in order to maximise its utility and keep the service family friendly.
