VANUATU is getting a second 411-kilometre Tamtam submarine data cable connection to the rest of the world.

“The Tamtam project in Vanuatu is a milestone as it is ADB’s first transaction under our new Wayfinder Program,” said Masato Kanda, Asian Development Bank (ADB) President.

“It will ensure reliable internet connectivity while also improving disaster resilience, both of which are essential for ni-Vanuatu businesses and communities to prosper.”

The financing package for the project includes technical assistance support, a $4.5 million loan from ADB’s ordinary capital resources, and a reimbursable grant of up to $1.9 million from the private sector window of the Asian Development Fund.

The Wayfinder Program is designed to de-risk strategic infrastructure projects in the Pacific and attract private investment to markets often viewed as high-risk.

Not only will the Tamtam cable deliver a more reliable phone and internet connection, but it will also double as an early warning system for tsunamis and earthquakes.

For some countries, like Vanuatu, there’s only one cable that keeps the whole country online and connected.

“When the earthquake happened in 2024, the business collapsed in terms of connecting to farmers, in terms of paying my staff’s salary, in terms of paying bills – the bills keep on rising after because I couldn’t pay them on time,” said Cainton Milroy, Pikinini Bar owner, Vanuatu.

But this isn’t just about more reliable internet. The new cable will also be fitted with remote monitoring sensors that will provide real-time climate data and early warnings for tsunamis and earthquakes.

“The second cable, the benefit of it is psychological as well. It’s going to create optimism for small businesses and attract big investment to the country.

“Big investment also comes with a lot of money, so that means it will trickle down to small businesses,” Milro said.

Emma Veve, Director-General, ADB Pacific Department, said for Vanuatu, being on the Pacific Ring of Fire, they’re very prone to natural hazards.

“So being resilient in terms of its infrastructure – getting the information it needs on what’s happening out there in the environment, will make a big difference in being able to respond quickly.”

By encouraging private-sector investment in the Pacific, ADB is helping deliver development solutions to complex challenges.