AN undersea cable will increase American Samoa’s connectivity to the world.
Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula this week announced American Samoa would join the Pacific Connect initiative in a strategic collaboration with Google.
Pula said the move would strengthen the territory’s digital infrastructure, resilience, and global connectivity.
At the heart of this initiative is Le Vasa cable, an independent next-generation subsea fiber-optic system, which will interconnect with the Bulikula cable with connections to Fiji and French Polynesia.
By leveraging existing construction operations in the region for Bulikula, American Samoa will benefit from reduced costs and accelerated installation timelines.
Le Vasa (Ocean, or Vast Sea) holds deep cultural significance to the American Samoan people.
Once a highway for trade and connection across the Pacific, it now symbolizes a modern voyage — carrying information, innovation, and opportunity across the digital seas.
Le Vasa cable will help enable the delivery of secure, high-speed, affordable internet and greater network resiliency, even during natural disasters and in times of emergencies.
Pula said connecting American Samoa to the world with Google was a historic step in securing a connected future for the territory.
“Our Administration is committed to economic advancement, and this project strengthens our strategic role in the Pacific while ensuring future generations benefit from the Le Vasa cable project,” he said.