A new submarine cable is on the way to Micronesia. It will be called the East Micronesia Cable System (EMCS) and have a total length of approximately 2,250 kilometres.
Technology giant NEC, a leading supplier of submarine cable systems for more than 50 years, has signed a contract with FSM Telecommunications Cable Corporation, based in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), BwebwerikiNet Limited (BNL) of the Republic of Kiribati, and Nauru Fibre Cable Corporation (NFCC) of the Republic of Nauru for the construction, supply and installation of the optical fibre submarine cable system.
EMCS will connect four islands – Pohnpei, Kosrae, Kiribati and Nauru – with a large-capacity optical fibre submarine cable. This is said to be the first submarine cable connection for the islands of Tarawa (Kiribati), Nauru and the state of Kosrae (FSM).
EMCS will ensure high-speed, high-quality, reliable and more secure communications for residents, businesses and governments in the region, as well as contribute to improved digital connectivity and further economic development.
The East Micronesia Cable System Project is supported by the governments of Australia, Japan and the United States, and will be implemented with grant funding from the three countries.
Jay Udit, acting Chief Executive Officer of NFCC and Secretary for Justice and Border Control, Government of Nauru, says, “The proposed submarine cable is a first for Nauru, and is a lifeline for the future of our communications system which promises great benefits for Nauru and its people.”