Perched leisurely atop Savanah Heights in Port Moresby is the glassy office of a lesser-known state-owned company, PNG DataCo.
Overlooking the bustling Vision City shopping mall is the office of a tall, softly-spoken man with a blend of Papua New Guinean (Sepik) and African heritage. His elegant outfit adds to his distinguished presence.
He is Paul Komboi, the CEO of PNG DataCo, the company that runs the critical infrastructure that is powering Papua New Guinea’s digital leap.
PNG DataCo was formed in 2014 as a state-owned enterprise with a critical mission: to bridge the nation’s digital divide.
Prior to its establishment, sluggish internet speeds and limited access to reliable connectivity hampered both businesses and citizens. Recognizing this need, PNG DataCo was formed to address these challenges by creating a robust national infrastructure that would improve digital access for all.
Their core objective revolves around building and managing the National Transmission Network (NTN). This network serves as the backbone of PNG’s digital economy, facilitating the seamless flow of data across the entire country.
Ultimately, PNG DataCo’s vision extends beyond infrastructure development. They aim to leverage improved internet connectivity to unlock economic growth. By empowering businesses to operate more efficiently, access new markets online, and compete globally, PNG DataCo plays a pivotal role in fostering economic prosperity. Additionally, their support for e-government initiatives holds the potential to enhance service delivery and reduce government costs.
In an interview with Oxford Business Group, PNG DataCo CEO Paul Komboi highlighted the impact of the Coral Sea Cable, which is part of PNG’s NTN.
“The cable we laid to connect PNG with Australia and Solomon Islands is the foundation for wider connectivity and enhanced economic growth across the Pacific island region. The challenge now, in the next phase of this project, is to extend connectivity to all districts and remote areas. Once we can increase penetration rates, these areas will witness economic multiplier effects over time.
“It is not sufficient to just install new, modernized critical infrastructure; we must follow through with operational excellence, proper governance, and effective regulatory oversight to ensure that the benefits can be passed on to retailers and, ultimately, consumers. The ICT sector cannot achieve this alone. We need a major national effort to ensure wider access to reliable power and other utilities“
PNG DataCo works hand-in-hand with internet service providers and mobile network operators, ensuring everyone benefits from the expanding digital ecosystem. This collaborative approach fosters a more inclusive digital landscape for PNG.
Despite ongoing challenges, DataCo prioritizes boosting business efficiency, global competitiveness, and access to new markets through improved internet connectivity. Their infrastructure empowers e-government initiatives, aiming for better service delivery, increased transparency, and reduced costs. A recent World Bank report [source needed] highlighted the positive impact of PNG DataCo’s initiatives, noting a significant increase in e-government adoption since the expansion of the NTN.
PNG DataCo may not be a household name, but its impact is undeniable. They’re the silent architects of PNG’s digital revolution, building the digital backbone that paves the way for a more connected, efficient, and prosperous future for the nation.
PNG DataCo’s impressive network stretches over 7,000 kilometers, combining terrestrial and submarine fiber optic cables. They don’t just build; they operate, managing this extensive network to ensure smooth data flow across the country.
This includes crucial international connections through three Points of Presence (PoPs) and five strategically placed Internet Gateway Nodes. Additionally, 15 Submarine Cable Landing Stations guarantee international connectivity, while 14 DWDM PoPs (Dense Wavelength-Division Multiplexing) facilitate efficient data transmission across all 20 provinces.
DataCo understands the importance of an open and interoperable network architecture. This means their infrastructure allows for widespread internet access (ubiquitous connectivity) and caters to various needs through options like Broadband and Point-to-Point connectivity.
