Port Vila, Vanuatu – 23-27 March 2026 – The Commonwealth Digital Roadshow made its inaugural debut in Vanuatu from 23-27 March 2026. The initiative aimed to raise awareness of emerging digital technologies and empower Commonwealth citizens to harness their potential for development.

Led by the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation in close partnership with the Government of Vanuatu’s Department of Communications and Digital Transformation, the roadshow builds on Vanuatu’s Digital Transformation Initiative and was co-launched in September 2025. The initiative is strategically designed to advance the country’s digital agenda by fostering an inclusive digital ecosystem, bridging the digital divide, and strengthening capacity through partnerships and knowledge sharing.

The overall goal of the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow in Vanuatu is to inspire, educate, and connect stakeholders, from policymakers to local communities on the transformative potential of digital technologies for sustainable development, economic growth, and improved public services.

In speaking of the Digital Roadshow, the Secretary General of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organization says:

“In Vanuatu, we will not only engage in discussions; we will educate, demonstrate and cultivate practical partnerships that empower SMEs and other community stakeholders to harness digital tools, strengthen e-commerce capabilities, and access regional and global markets to future-proof Pacific economies. The CTO remains steadfast in advancing practical solutions, strategic partnerships, and capacity development that transform digital ambition into measurable impact”.

The three-day event brought together senior government officials, ICT regulators, private sector leaders, tech entrepreneurs, representatives from academia and civil society, and international development partners. A dedicated session also engaged local community leaders, farmers, small business owners, youth and women’s groups, educators, health workers, and local government representatives to ensure broad and inclusive participation.

Mr Andrea Ibba, the Pacific E-commerce Coordinator of the PIFS Pacific E-commerce Unit presented ongoing regional efforts to advance e-commerce and digital transformation across Forum Island Countries, commending Vanuatu for its progress in strengthening its e-commerce readiness.

Mr Ibba also facilitated a session on ICT for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which explored practical, scalable and commercially relevant approaches to increasing ICT uptake among SMEs across urban, rural and outer island communities. The session highlighted how policy frameworks, digital infrastructure, capacity-building initiatives and partnerships can work together to create a more enabling environment for SME digital transformation and support small businesses to participate more effectively in the digital economy.

This initiative aligns with Strategic Output 6.2 of the Pacific Regional E-commerce Strategy and Roadmap, which focuses on enhancing skills for all and develop regional awareness raising programs.