UAS Fund
The UAS Fund, created under the National ICT Act 2009, aims to close the digital gap by supporting initiatives that enhance ICT service accessibility and quality, with a particular focus on rural areas.
Before Papua New Guinea liberalized its telecommunications market in 2010, telephone access was among the lowest globally. While competition in the mobile market has significantly improved access, over 70% of the population resides in rural areas, where basic communication services remained largely unavailable.
To address this gap, the government established the Universal Access and Service Fund (UAS Fund) through the National Information and Communications Technology Act 2009.
Strategic Plan 2023-2027
To create a connected Papua New Guinea where all citizens, regardless of location, have access to affordable and reliable ICT services, empowering them to participate fully in the digital age.
Mission
To facilitate the expansion and improvement of ICT infrastructure and services in underserved areas of Papua New Guinea through strategic funding, effective project implementation, and collaboration with key stakeholders.
UAS Fund Overview
The Universal Access and Service (UAS) Fund was established under the National ICT Act 2009 to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s long-term growth. Our primary goal is to close the digital divide by funding projects that expand and improve Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services, especially in rural communities.
Managed by the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), the UAS Fund supports strategic investments in the telecommunications and ICT sectors.
We work to ensure everyone across the country has access to and can use modern, beneficial digital services.
UAS Funding Sources
- The UAS Fund helps subsidise the costs of:
- Infrastructure & networks
- Essential services & equipment
- Digital applications & content
- Human resource development
- By investing in areas that might not be commercially viable, we make sure that vital ICT resources reach all of Papua New Guinea. NICTA is committed to managing the fund in an equitable, transparent, and cost-effective way.