2023

TRBR and RBV MoU signing

In this era of Digital transformation and the widespread adoption of digital financial services, the Office of the Telecommunications, Radiocommunications and Broadcasting Regulator (TRBR) and the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu (RBV), each operating independently under separate legislations, have embarked on a collaborative journey to enhance the safety of the Mobile financial transactions and to foster greater trust within the financial ecosystem in Vanuatu.

The rapid evolution of technology along with the convergence of financial services and Mobile platforms, has ushered in a new era of financial transactions and paving the way to a cashless economy. To effectively address emerging challenges in the digital financial space, both institutions have decided to reaffirm their commitment through the amendment of their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This amendment clearly identifies their responsibilities under their respective jurisdiction.

The amendment of the MOU has been signed on the 21st of September 2023, aims also to facilitate the exchange of vital information necessary for the supervision, regulation, and monitoring of Mobile Money systems.

Mobile money is a financial service that allows users to store, send, and receive money using a mobile phone. It is considered an alternative payment method (APM) and a form of digital payment that usually does not require a bank account.

Through this collaborative partnership, TRBR and RBV are dedicated to ensuring the sustained growth and security of Vanuatu’s financial landscape and to ensuring that Consumers concerns are appropriately addressed.

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Sponsorship for Pacific Media Partnership Conference

The Office of the TRBR is pleased to have provided financial support toward hosting the Pacific Media Partnership Conference in Vanuatu, which took place on the 30th of August to 1st September 2023 at the Ramada Resort, Port Vila.

Hosted by VBTC, the conference served as an invaluable platform for the members of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) from the Pacific region. It facilitated the exchange knowledge, expertise, and solutions to address challenges, ultimately contributing to the development and improvement of media in the region. The conference was particularly beneficial for smaller island nations like Vanuatu, as it offered an opportunity to forge new alliances and establish collaborations to share content and technical expertise. It also provided broadcasters a platform to express their perspectives, share experiences, and collaboratively address common issues.

We extend our congratulations to VBTC for successfully organizing the event, and we anticipate continued collaboration in the advancement of media excellence in Vanuatu.

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Sponsorship for Vanuatu National School Games 2023

The Office of the TRBR is proud to support the Vanuatu National School Games 2023. Alongside our sponsorship, the TRBR team engaged in informative sessions at the game villages, providing students with valuable insights into crucial aspects of internet governance, SIM Registration, TRBR complaint handling process and the role of the TRBR. Recognizing that children including students are vulnerable in the internet space, it is imperative that they are natured and educated about both the benefits and risk of the internet. They must also grasp these concepts to ensure their online safety, privacy, and responsible use of the internet.

We firmly believe that these awareness sessions also play a pivotal role in elevating students’ digital literacy, encouraging responsible online conduct, and empowering them to make well-informed decisions in their online activities. Furthermore, TRBR encourages them to share these concepts with their parents, siblings, and other members of their families and friends, thus fostering a broader understanding of internet safety and responsible usage.

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UAP 4th Undertaking Agreement

On September 22nd, 2023, Vodafone and Digicel once again reaffirmed their commitment to the Government's Universal Access Policy (UAP). The Policy's target is to provide Broadband and Narrowband coverage to 98% of Vanuatu’s population by the conclusion of the Policy. This latest signing marks the fourth UAP Undertaking Agreement between the two Telecommunications Operators; TVL trading as Vodafone and Digicel (Vanuatu) Limited with TRBR and witnessed by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO). These UAP initiatives aims to broadening access to connectivity from Torres to Aneityum.

Despite a lot of challenges, including geographical, logistical, financial, and those posed by natural disasters, infrastructure deployment continues in line with these commitments. Sustaining these networks and ensuring Quality of Service (QoS) in remote and uneconomically viable areas remains a challenge, and this will be a primary focus from 2024 onwards.

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Public Register