BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE 29th Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association (PITA) Annual General Meeting (AGM), Business Forum and Expo currently underway in Honiara, is providing a vital platform for Pacific telecommunication providers to share experiences, address common challenges, and explore practical solutions, said Gimson Waibala, Chairman of the Host Organizing Committee.

In an interview with this paper, Waibala explained that the purpose of PITA is rooted in addressing the unique challenges faced by Pacific Island nations in the areas of internet technology, security, and digital connectivity.

“PITA was formed in response to the challenges we face in the Pacific Islands, particularly in areas like internet technology, cybersecurity, and digital connectivity,” Waibala said.

“This platform allows us to raise important questions and, more importantly, to provide solutions to our telecommunication providers across the region.”

Given that this is the second time Our Telekom has had the honor of hosting the PITA AGM, Waibala emphasised the significance of the event in bridging gaps and solving regional telecom issues.

“PITA is here to help us identify gaps and find solutions for telecommunication, ICT, cybersecurity, and everything that falls under technology,” he added.

Waibala expressed hope that, by the end of the forum, Pacific telecom providers will walk away with concrete solutions to their challenges.

“By the end of the forum, it won’t just be Our Telekom, but all the telecommunications providers across the region who will have answers to the problems they are currently facing,” Waibala said.

“For example, if Our Telekom is facing certain issues, PNG Telecom might have answers or solutions that can benefit the entire region. This is where information sharing and collaboration come into play.”

In addition to the discussions among telecom providers, Waibala highlighted the valuable role of solution providers at the event, offering specialized services to address specific problems faced by telecom companies.

“This forum isn’t just about discussion. We have technology providers here who are offering tailored solutions to help resolve the challenges our telecom companies face,” Waibala added.

The PITA kickstarted on April 28 and will conclude on May 2 with the theme “Smart Blue Continent: Strengthening Digital Soverinity and Connectivity for a Resilient Pacific Future”.