They see it as giving a voice to the voiceless, because for far too long, certain parts of Goilala have been off the telecommunication grid.
Today, it was Rupila, a major village with an estimated population of 1,000, about 40km from Tapini station and situated closer to the border of Morobe Province.
Rupila is now the seventh major village in the district to have a VSAT, enabling locals access to telecommunication.
Not only that, but according to VSAT project owner Steven Clay, the project also rolls out national television stations – NBC and EM TV, on the same platform.
“This service now allows the villagers to call, access internet, and watch television also with the 42 inch screen TV provided with it,” he said.
Clay’s team is with Telikom PNG, engaged by the local District Development Authority since last year for the VSAT rollout through the district.
“Rupila VSAT has now gone online and locals have been calling from the village to thank us. From my end, I’d say they really appreciate the service we have provided for them, but to know how they really feel, that’s something only a local would tell you, because this is the first time they have such a service,” he said.
He said there are three more VSATs to be installed in Guari Station, Guarimeipa and Kosipe, once funding is made available.
Clay has also suggested a 4G platform for the mountainous district, a more cost-effective option, which he says will be negotiated for the long-term.
Locals are thanking the GDDA and local member William Samb for the initiative.
“At least a fair connectivity all across Goilala so our people have access to connecting to family and friends rather than walking for days to pass on messages in case of emergency,” said Michael Atuai, a Goilala elite.
Samb was announced Goilala MP in July 2015, following the by-election after reigning member late Daniel Mona passed away from illness.
(PIcture: Locals at another village in Goilala called Omu in early Janury with their newly set-up dish)