Connecting Kiribati: Strategies and Insights for Digital Transformation Across Pacific Islands

• Market Overview: Internet Access in Kiribati
• Emerging Technology Trends Shaping Connectivity
• Competitive Landscape and Key Players
• Growth Forecasts and Market Potential
• Regional Analysis: Island-by-Island Connectivity
• Future Outlook: Pathways to a Digitally Inclusive Kiribati
• Challenges and Opportunities in Bridging the Digital Divide
• Sources & References

“Kiribati is a remote Pacific nation of 33 atolls spread over 3.5 million km² of ocean​ esa.int.” (source)

Market Overview: Internet Access in Kiribati

Kiribati, a remote island nation in the central Pacific, faces significant challenges in providing widespread and reliable internet access to its population of approximately 130,000 people. The country comprises 33 atolls and reef islands scattered over 3.5 million square kilometers of ocean, making infrastructure development both logistically complex and costly. As of 2023, internet penetration in Kiribati remains among the lowest in the Pacific region, with only about 15% of the population having regular access to the internet (DataReportal).

The digital divide in Kiribati is stark, with the majority of internet users concentrated in the capital, South Tarawa, where infrastructure is relatively more developed. In contrast, the outer islands often rely on slow and expensive satellite connections, if any connectivity exists at all. The high cost of satellite bandwidth and limited local infrastructure have historically hindered efforts to expand access (Asian Development Bank).

Recent initiatives aim to bridge this divide. In 2022, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank launched the Kiribati Connectivity Project, which includes the installation of a submarine fiber-optic cable linking Tarawa to the Southern Cross NEXT network. This project is expected to dramatically increase bandwidth, reduce costs, and improve reliability for the main population centers by 2025 (World Bank).

Mobile internet is also expanding, with the state-owned Amalgamated Telecom Holdings Kiribati Limited (ATHKL) rolling out 3G and 4G services in urban areas. However, coverage remains limited outside South Tarawa, and affordability is a persistent issue. According to the Alliance for Affordable Internet, the cost of 1GB of mobile data in Kiribati is over 5% of average monthly income, well above the UN’s 2% affordability target.

Bridging the digital divide in Kiribati is crucial for economic development, education, and access to essential services. While recent investments signal progress, ongoing efforts are needed to ensure that all I-Kiribati, regardless of location, can participate in the digital economy and benefit from improved connectivity.

Emerging Technology Trends Shaping Connectivity

Kiribati, a nation of 33 atolls and reef islands scattered across 3.5 million square kilometers of the Pacific Ocean, faces unique challenges in providing reliable and affordable internet access. The country’s extreme geographic dispersion, limited infrastructure, and small population have historically resulted in high connectivity costs and low penetration rates. However, recent technological advancements and international partnerships are beginning to bridge the digital divide, offering new opportunities for economic development, education, and social inclusion.

As of 2023, internet penetration in Kiribati remains among the lowest in the Pacific, with only about 15% of the population having regular access to the internet (World Bank). Most connectivity is concentrated in the capital, South Tarawa, while outer islands rely on expensive and slow satellite links. The high cost of satellite bandwidth has been a major barrier, with monthly broadband prices often exceeding $100 USD, far above the regional average (ITU).

Emerging technology trends are now reshaping the connectivity landscape in Kiribati:

• Submarine Cable Projects: The planned East Micronesia Cable, supported by the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, will connect Kiribati to global fiber-optic networks via a submarine cable landing in Tarawa. This project, expected to be completed by 2025, promises to dramatically increase bandwidth and reduce costs (ADB).
• Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites: Companies like Starlink and OneWeb are deploying LEO satellite constellations that can deliver high-speed, low-latency internet to remote islands. In 2023, Kiribati’s government began discussions to pilot LEO satellite services, which could provide affordable connectivity to outer islands previously unreachable by traditional infrastructure (Pacific Island Times).
• Mobile Broadband Expansion: The state-owned operator, BwebwerikiNET, is expanding 3G and 4G mobile networks, leveraging new wireless technologies to reach more users. Mobile internet is increasingly becoming the primary mode of access, especially among youth and in urban areas (GSMA).

These initiatives are critical for bridging Kiribati’s digital divide. Improved connectivity will support e-government, telemedicine, distance learning, and digital financial services, fostering greater resilience and inclusion for Kiribati’s dispersed communities.

Competitive Landscape and Key Players

The competitive landscape for internet access in Kiribati is shaped by the nation’s unique geography—33 widely dispersed atolls and reef islands across the central Pacific Ocean. This presents significant logistical and infrastructural challenges for connectivity, making the digital divide a persistent issue. However, recent years have seen notable progress, driven by both government initiatives and private sector involvement.

Key Players

• Telecom Services Kiribati Limited (TSKL): As the state-owned incumbent, TSKL is the primary provider of fixed-line and mobile telecommunications, including internet services. TSKL has been instrumental in rolling out 3G and 4G mobile networks, especially on the main island of Tarawa, and is working to expand coverage to outer islands (TSKL).
• OceanLink: A subsidiary of Amalgamated Telecom Holdings (ATH), OceanLink entered the market in 2022, introducing competition in mobile and internet services. OceanLink’s entry has spurred improvements in service quality and pricing, particularly in urban centers (ATH Kiribati).
• Satellite Providers: Due to the remoteness of many islands, satellite internet remains a crucial solution. Providers like Kacific Broadband Satellites have partnered with the government to deliver high-speed satellite broadband, targeting schools, clinics, and community centers in underserved areas (Kacific).

Market Dynamics and Recent Developments

• In 2023, Kiribati’s internet penetration rate reached approximately 30%, up from 20% in 2019, reflecting ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide (DataReportal).
• The government, with support from the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, is investing in the Kiribati Connectivity Project, which aims to lay undersea fiber-optic cables to connect Tarawa and Kiritimati, further reducing reliance on expensive satellite links.
• Despite progress, high costs and limited infrastructure outside main population centers remain barriers. The average monthly cost for a basic broadband package is still among the highest in the Pacific region (ITU).

In summary, while TSKL and OceanLink dominate the market, partnerships with satellite providers and international development agencies are crucial for expanding affordable, reliable internet access across Kiribati’s remote islands. Ongoing infrastructure investments and increased competition are expected to further narrow the digital divide in the coming years.

Growth Forecasts and Market Potential

Kiribati, a nation of 33 atolls and reef islands scattered across the central Pacific, faces unique challenges in providing reliable and affordable internet access to its population of approximately 130,000. The country’s extreme geographic dispersion and limited infrastructure have historically resulted in low internet penetration rates and high connectivity costs. However, recent developments signal a turning point, with significant growth forecasts and untapped market potential for digital connectivity in Kiribati.

According to the Digital 2024: Kiribati report, internet penetration in Kiribati stood at just 23.2% in early 2024, equating to around 30,000 users. This figure, while modest, represents a steady increase from previous years, driven by government initiatives and international partnerships aimed at expanding digital infrastructure. The government’s collaboration with the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank is set to deliver a new submarine cable system by 2025, which is expected to dramatically improve bandwidth, reduce latency, and lower costs for end users.

• Projected Growth: Industry analysts forecast that internet penetration could reach 50% by 2027, as infrastructure projects come online and mobile broadband services expand (ITU Statistics).
• Market Potential: With a young and increasingly tech-savvy population—over 50% of Kiribati’s citizens are under 25—the demand for digital services, e-learning, telemedicine, and e-commerce is expected to surge.
• Investment Opportunities: The government’s commitment to digital transformation, coupled with donor support, creates a favorable environment for private sector investment in mobile networks, satellite connectivity, and digital literacy programs.

Bridging the digital divide in Kiribati is not only a matter of social inclusion but also a catalyst for economic development. Enhanced internet access can unlock new opportunities in education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, particularly for remote island communities. As connectivity improves, Kiribati is poised to join the broader digital economy of the Pacific, making the next five years critical for stakeholders seeking to tap into this emerging market.

Regional Analysis: Island-by-Island Connectivity

Kiribati, a nation of 33 atolls and reef islands scattered across 3.5 million square kilometers of the Pacific Ocean, faces unique challenges in providing equitable internet access to its population of approximately 130,000. The country’s extreme geographic dispersion and limited infrastructure have historically resulted in a significant digital divide, with most connectivity concentrated in the capital, South Tarawa, while remote outer islands remain underserved.

As of 2023, internet penetration in Kiribati stands at around 24%, with roughly 31,000 users (DataReportal). The majority of these users are located in South Tarawa, where 3G and limited 4G mobile services are available through the state-owned provider, BwebwerikiNET. In contrast, outer islands rely heavily on expensive and slow satellite connections, with speeds often below 1 Mbps and high latency, making activities such as video streaming or online education challenging (ADB Digital Economy Report).

Efforts to bridge the digital divide are underway. In 2022, the World Bank and Asian Development Bank launched the East Micronesia Cable project, which will connect Kiribati (Tarawa and Kiritimati), Nauru, and the Federated States of Micronesia to a new submarine fiber optic cable. This project, expected to be completed by 2025, aims to deliver high-speed, reliable internet to over 60% of Kiribati’s population, significantly reducing costs and improving service quality.

On the outer islands, the government and international partners are piloting community Wi-Fi hubs and exploring low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite solutions, such as Starlink, to provide affordable broadband (Pacific Island Times). These initiatives are crucial for supporting e-government, telemedicine, and distance learning, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the importance of digital connectivity for resilience and development.

• South Tarawa: Main hub for mobile and fixed wireless broadband; submarine cable to further boost capacity.
• Kiritimati: Targeted for improved connectivity via the new cable; currently reliant on satellite.
• Outer Islands: Limited to satellite; pilot projects for Wi-Fi and LEO satellite underway.

While significant progress is being made, ongoing investment and regional cooperation are essential to ensure that all I-Kiribati, regardless of location, can participate in the digital economy and access vital online services.

Future Outlook: Pathways to a Digitally Inclusive Kiribati

Kiribati, a nation of 33 atolls and reef islands scattered across the central Pacific, faces unique challenges in achieving digital inclusion. The country’s vast geographic dispersion and limited infrastructure have historically hindered widespread internet access. As of 2023, internet penetration in Kiribati remains among the lowest in the Pacific, with only about 20% of the population having regular access to the internet (DataReportal).

Bridging the digital divide in Kiribati is critical for social and economic development. The government, in partnership with international organizations, has prioritized expanding connectivity. The World Bank’s Digital Kiribati Project aims to improve internet infrastructure by deploying undersea fiber optic cables and enhancing satellite connectivity. This initiative is expected to increase bandwidth, reduce costs, and provide more reliable service to both urban and remote communities.

Mobile internet is currently the primary means of online access for most I-Kiribati. The state-owned provider, Amalgamated Telecom Holdings Kiribati Limited (ATHKL), has expanded 3G and 4G coverage to the main island of Tarawa and is gradually extending services to outer islands (ATHKL). However, high costs and limited device availability remain significant barriers for many households.

• Infrastructure Investment: The planned installation of the Southern Cross NEXT submarine cable, expected to be operational by 2025, will connect Kiribati to high-speed international networks, dramatically improving capacity and reliability (Southern Cross Cables).
• Affordability Initiatives: Subsidies and public-private partnerships are being explored to lower the cost of internet access and devices, making digital tools more accessible to low-income families.
• Digital Literacy: Programs led by the government and NGOs are focusing on digital skills training, particularly for women, youth, and rural populations, to ensure that increased access translates into meaningful use (UNESCAP).

Looking ahead, the convergence of infrastructure upgrades, affordability measures, and digital literacy initiatives offers a promising pathway to a digitally inclusive Kiribati. Continued collaboration between government, private sector, and international partners will be essential to ensure that all I-Kiribati, regardless of location, can participate in the digital future.

Challenges and Opportunities in Bridging the Digital Divide

Kiribati, a nation of 33 atolls and reef islands scattered across 3.5 million square kilometers of the Pacific Ocean, faces unique challenges in providing reliable and affordable internet access to its population of around 120,000. The country’s extreme geographic dispersion, limited infrastructure, and economic constraints have contributed to a significant digital divide, both internally and in comparison to global standards.

Challenges

• Geographic Isolation: Many of Kiribati’s islands are hundreds of kilometers apart, making the deployment of terrestrial broadband infrastructure logistically and financially prohibitive. Most internet connectivity relies on satellite links, which are often slow and expensive (ITU).
• High Costs and Limited Bandwidth: As of 2023, the average cost of a basic broadband package in Kiribati is among the highest in the Pacific, with limited data caps and speeds often below 2 Mbps (World Bank).
• Infrastructure Vulnerability: The country’s infrastructure is highly susceptible to climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather, which can disrupt connectivity and damage equipment (Asian Development Bank).
• Digital Literacy: Limited access to digital devices and training further exacerbates the divide, particularly among women, youth, and rural communities.

Opportunities

• Submarine Cable Projects: The planned East Micronesia Cable, supported by the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, aims to connect Kiribati to global fiber-optic networks by 2025, promising faster and more affordable internet (World Bank).
• Satellite Innovations: New low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite services, such as Starlink, are being explored to provide higher-speed, lower-latency internet to remote islands (Pacific Island Times).
• Government Initiatives: The Kiribati government’s National ICT Policy prioritizes digital inclusion, e-government, and public-private partnerships to expand access and build digital skills (ITU).

Bridging the digital divide in Kiribati will require sustained investment, regional cooperation, and innovative solutions tailored to the country’s unique context. Success could unlock new opportunities in education, healthcare, and economic development for its remote communities.

Sources & References

• Internet Access in Kiribati: Bridging the Digital Divide Across Remote Pacific Islands
• Asian Development Bank
• World Bank
• Alliance for Affordable Internet
• World Bank
• ITU
• Pacific Island Times
• Kacific
• Southern Cross Cables