Minister Shauna Assures Work is in Progress to Better Digital Technology in the Maldives

On the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, Minister Aminath Shauna highlighted the importance of digital technology that has remained a key player amid the global pandemic.  

The past year has made things crystal-clear in regards of how digitally advanced societies have battled the challenges better than those who still have a long way to go in implementing the latest advancements. In the Maldives, immense progress has been made since ICT was introduced 78 years ago.  

Private sector stakeholders played a major role in facilitating submarine fiber optic cables to connect the islands in the archipelago to the outside world. The number of interconnected islands that receive the service has also increased over the years, allowing a significant portion of the population to access seamless broadband internet connectivity. In addition, the Maldives can now connect on 5G technology services, a leap from the latest 4G access throughout the country.  

Under the mandate of the government, issues related to the current advancements have been noted, says Minister Shauna. Public concerns regarding internet prices and service quality have been persistent issues that are under priority consideration of the Ministry. In line with this, more submarine cables will be brought in, along with much-needed opportunities for telecommunication growth.  

Minister Shauna expressed high hopes in the efforts being fruitful in the near future, indeed accelerating digital transformation in challenging times for the country.