Access to affordable connectivity plays a huge role in an emerging market like in Papua New Guinea (PNG), leading to improved access to services provided to the people. The Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Tomothy Masiu stressed this when launching Vodafone’s independence special promotion in Port Moresby city this week. “As a champion of technology change, I believe connectivity is one of the biggest equalizers. Access to affordable connectivity plays a huge role in improving people’s lives and contributing to the country’s growth,” said Minister Masiu. The Minister said affordable connectivity means that rural school students can access the same teaching material as urban students, access online learning, people can use technology to start small and micro businesses, access information and government services. “There are many services, such as mobile money and other value- added services that can be built on the foundation of reliable and affordable connectivity,” the minister added. “With the liberalization of the Telecoms industry, and entry of new players like Vodafone, the game is changing. Cost of connectivity is becoming much more affordable; plans are becoming cheaper; phones are more affordable and there are amazing promotions for customers to choose from.” He also revealed that latest reports indicate that cost of connectivity and data continue to fall, and more people are connected today than ever before.