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From Vision to Reality: Vanuatu That vision came to life from 23 to 27 March 2026, across Port Vila and surrounding communities. The Commonwealth Digital Roadshow made its historic debut in Vanuatu, marking an important milestone not only for the country, but for the broader Commonwealth approach to digital development. Officially opened by Prime Minister, the Honourable Jotham Napat, the Roadshow signalled a strong national commitment to shaping a future in which digital technologies play a central role in economic growth, governance, and social development. The opening ceremony brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from government leaders and regulators to private sector actors and development partners. Among them was the UK High Commissioner to Vanuatu, H.E. Nicolette Brent, who recognised the CTO’s leadership in supporting countries to navigate an increasingly digital world. In his introductory remarks, the CTO Chair and ICT Minister of Samoa described Vanuatu’s role as both bold and symbolic, demonstrating how small island states are taking an active role in shaping their digital futures. For CTO Secretary General Bernadette Lewis, the moment reflected a broader evolution. The Roadshow, she noted, represents a shift in how the organisation supports its members—moving from dialogue to delivery, and from short-term engagement to long- term impact. Participants were welcomed by Director General Mr George Manuiri from the Prime Minister’s Office and invited to experience the energy and hospitality of Port Vila—a setting that would anchor a week of purposeful engagement. A Concept Built for the Future At its core, the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow is a carefully designed response to one of the most pressing questions facing small states today: how to translate the promise of digital transformation into meaningful, lasting impact. It is a unique programme of awareness-raising, capacity building, and education, one that goes beyond simply sharing information. It connects knowledge with action through demonstrations, immersive activities, and hands-on engagement, enabling stakeholders to fully understand and experience the possibilities of a digital future. But its ambition goes further. The Roadshow is also about building the foundations for sustained change, creating frameworks for coalitions and partnerships that extend well beyond the duration of each event. These partnerships are intended to spark projects, mobilise investment, and drive programmes that continue to deliver tangible benefits long after the Roadshow moves on. Recognising the diversity of the Commonwealth, the CTO has ensured that no two Roadshows will be the same. Each is tailored to the specific needs, priorities, and realities of the host country, responding directly to issues raised by national stakeholders while supporting communities in unlocking the full potential of ICT.
The journey continues, Part Two will be featured in the next issue of CTO InfoSphere.
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