Board urged to encourage competition

NEW board members and the chief executive officer of the National Information Communication Technology Authority (Nicta) have been reminded to ensure that there is sustainable competition in the industry.
Information and Communication Technology Minister Timothy Masiu reminded them during a swearing-in ceremony in Port Moresby to perform their duties and maintain a high-level playing field for the industry.
He told them to ensure that Government policies, affordability and accessibility were achieved.
Kila Gulo-Vui was sworn in as the new chief executive officer with board members Noel Mobiha (chairman), Caroline Greenway, Kone Kula and John Cholai.
“If our people are complaining about high ICT (information communication technology) service fees or rates, then this is an indication that the regulator is not performing its duties,” he said.
“This is the challenge that I am leaving with the new CEO and the board to ensure that there is sustainable competition in the market, and fair extension of ICT infrastructure and services to our people. I am calling on you to work with the Department of Information Communication Technology and stakeholders to review the National ICT Policy 2008 and set a new strategic direction for the ICT industry.
“The new strategic direction should take into account the advancement of digital technology.” Mobiha said Nicta as the regulator must look at ways to build small-medium enterprises and plan on the best way forward.