Vodafone Fiji faces cost and utility challenges in 5G rollout

Vodafone Fiji is navigating significant hurdles in its mission to expand 5G network coverage across the country. Chief Technology Officer Vikash Prasad highlighted that the high cost of deploying 5G technology and a critical dependence on supporting utilities, particularly electricity infrastructure, remain primary challenges.

Prasad explained that the company is committed to fulfilling its obligations under the 5G license. Simultaneously, Vodafone Fiji is undertaking a broader network modernization strategy. This involves upgrading areas still reliant on older 2G and 3G services to the more advanced 4G LTE standard, ensuring a more robust and widespread network.

Despite these obstacles, the introduction of 5G has already yielded tangible benefits. Internet speeds have seen notable improvements, facilitating enhanced access to a range of digital services. These include online education platforms, entertainment options, and seamless, buffer-free live streaming experiences. Furthermore, Prasad emphasized that the ongoing 5G rollout is instrumental in supporting Vodafone Fiji's broader objectives of expanding its network footprint throughout Fiji.

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Obviously, the cost to take on 5G is very expensive as well, and there is a dependence on a lot of utility partners in getting the power ready. So for us, firstly, we are going to focus on the obligations as part of the 5G licence. But like I said, we will also, as part of modernization of the network, we will look at rolling out more 4G, more LTE, where currently there is only 2G or 3G services.