American Samoa has signed an agreement with Google to build a fiber-optic cable connecting the U.S territory to Fiji and French Polynesia as part of the Pacific Connect initiative.
The project’s nexus is Le Vasa cable, an independent subsea fiber-optic system that will link up with the Bulikula cable.
“Together with Google, it is a historic step in securing a connected future for the people of American Samoa,” Gov.Pulaalii Nikolao Pula Pulaalii said after signing an agreement with Google on 15 January.
Pula said the Le Vasa project “marks a transformative step toward strengthening American Samoa’s digital infrastructure, resilience and global connectivity,” which will enhance the territory’s strategic role in the Pacific.
The $45 million Le Vasa project, to be managed by the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority, will be partly funded by a $15 million grant from the American Rescue Plan in aligns with federal priorities to expand broadband access in underserved and unserved communities.
The territorial government has yet to identify other sources of funding for the project.
“I’m excited to see our close collaboration with American Samoa and ASTCA come to fruition with the Le Vasa cable,” said Brian Quigley, VP, Global Network Infrastructure, Google Cloud.
“Le Vasa will establish a foundation for long-term economic diversification and growth, and it will strengthen redundancy, expand economic opportunity, and bridge the digital divide between the Pacific and the United States.”
The Bulikula network also includes Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and Hawaii.
Officials said Le Vasa, meaning “The Ocean” or “The Vast Sea,” holds deep cultural significance for the American Samoan people.
“Once a highway for trade and connection across the Pacific, it now symbolises a modern voyage, carrying information, innovation, and opportunity across the digital seas,” reads a press release from the governor’s office.
“Le Vasa cable is more than infrastructure; it reflects our identity. We are rooted in voyaging, resilience and are deeply connected to our waters. Our ancestors once navigated Le Vasa guided by stars and instinct. Today, we navigate the digital ocean guided by vision and purpose. This cable honors that legacy while opening new pathways,” it added.
Avamua Dave Haleck, chairman of the ASTCA board, noted that connectivity is not just about speed but is also about access and secure access.
Officials said Le Vasa cable will help enable the delivery of secure, high-speed, affordable internet and greater network resiliency, even during natural disasters and emergencies.
