Recently, the Vanuatu Government issued a memo restricting the purchase of new Microsoft Office licenses for all government ministries and departments. This move aims to avoid duplicate spending, given the significant investment already made in Microsoft products across ministries.
But this raises a bigger, practical question:
Why not take the next step and move to open-source systems like Linux across government offices?
Why Linux Makes Sense for Vanuatu
1. Cost Savings
Unlike Microsoft Windows and Office, Linux distributions are free. This would save millions of vatu annually in licensing fees currently spent on renewing Windows and Office for each machine purchased by the government.
Here’s an example for 300 government users or devices, how much money is spent on Windows and Office each year?
- Windows E3 licenses: ~3 million VUV/year
- Microsoft Office E3 licenses: ~8.9 million VUV/year
- Combined total: ~12 million VUV annually
If upgraded to Microsoft 365 E3, including Windows, Office, and EMS, the cost can reach 14.5 million VUV per year.
For small business setups, even with a lower-tier plan, it still costs around 6.5 million VUV annually.
Premium E5 upgrades, Exchange licenses, and related services can push this further to 20–22 million VUV per year.
These figures show that the government is spending millions annually on licensing costs alone, funds that could instead support other essential services.
2. Enhanced Cybersecurity
Vanuatu’s government systems have faced ransomware attacks in recent years, highlighting vulnerabilities in current setups. Linux is inherently more secure, with fewer virus attacks and faster vulnerability patching due to its open-source nature. This would reduce risks of system lockouts and data breaches that paralyze government services.
3. Global Precedent
Countries like India, Russia, China, Germany, and South Korea have successfully moved government offices to Linux to enhance digital sovereignty, save costs, and improve control over critical data systems.
4. User-Friendly Options Available
Linux is no longer only for tech experts. Popular, user-friendly distributions like:
- Ubuntu LTS (Long-Term Support): Stable, secure, and widely adopted in governments and universities globally.
- Linux Mint: Familiar for Windows users, making the transition easier for staff.
- Fedora and Debian: Suitable for advanced users and server environments, providing stability and control.
5. Performance Benefits
Linux runs efficiently on older hardware, helping ministries extend the lifespan of existing computers instead of spending heavily on new machines just to keep up with heavier Windows updates.
A Step Towards Digital Independence
Vanuatu’s reliance on proprietary systems not only drains the national budget but also leaves critical government infrastructure vulnerable to foreign dependencies and licensing restrictions.
By piloting Linux systems within non-critical departments, the government can:
- Evaluate user adaptation and support needs.
- Gradually reduce licensing expenses.
- Strengthen control over ICT infrastructure.
- Develop local ICT capacity through training in open-source technologies.
But What About Compatibility?
It’s true that some specialized software still requires Windows, but for basic office tasks (word processing, spreadsheets, presentations), LibreOffice or OnlyOffice on Linux can replace Microsoft Office effectively. Email, internet browsing, and secure document management are easily handled on Linux systems.
Conclusion: A Future-Ready Vanuatu
If the Vanuatu Government is serious about prudent financial management and safeguarding national ICT systems, it’s time to explore Linux and open-source alternatives.
In a world where digital security and sovereignty are becoming critical, going open source is not just an option but a necessity for resilience, cost-effectiveness, and sustainable digital development.
What are your thoughts? Should Vanuatu move to Linux for its government systems? Let’s discuss below.
Mattdotvu 
Leave a comment