Solomon Islands has potential to leap in digital transformation

The Solomon Islands has the potential to emerge as a regional leader in digital transformation if the Government makes the right investments now.

This sentiment was shared by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Alwyn Danitofea at the opening of a one-day workshop Tuesday this week on Solomon Islands’ progress and future trajectory toward an Inclusive Digital Economy.

Danitofea said Solomon Islands can position itself not only to meet our domestic development goals, but to offer valuable expertise and innovation to our Pacific neighbours.

“Today underscores our government’s commitment to a digital economy that is not only robust and secure, but also inclusive and future-ready,” he said.

Digital transformation is reshaping economies worldwide, offering opportunities for financial inclusion, innovation, and economic growth.

In the Solomon Islands, digital technologies are playing an increasingly vital role in bridging gaps in financial access, improving service delivery, and fostering greater participation in the digital economy.

However, achieving an inclusive digital economy—one that benefits rural communities, women, youth, MSMEs, and seasonal workers—requires a coordinated approach across public and private sectors.

The Inclusive Digital Economy Stocktake 2025 assessed progress, showcased ongoing initiatives, and strengthened collaboration to ensure digital development leaves no one behind.

This gathering of key stakeholders has helped to identify areas of success, remaining challenges, and opportunities for enhanced alignment between government strategies, financial sector advancements, and private sector innovations.

The stocktake aims to bring visibility to key initiatives advancing the Solomon Islands’ digital economy; Strengthen collaboration between government, private sector, and development partners; and address challenges and bottlenecks that hinder inclusive digital transformation.

Discussions also highlighted advancements in digital financial services, including e-wallets, fintech solutions, and SIM registration, as well as CBSI’s work on the Automated Transfer System (ATS) for payments.

By fostering dialogue and collaboration, this stocktake helped shape the next phase of digital development, ensuring that technological progress translates into meaningful, inclusive growth for all Solomon Islanders.                                                                                           

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GCU statement