In the closing days of March, a flurry of articles was released on China’s Central Bank Digital Currency ushering a new era in global trade.  According to African research and information services firm, Proshare, “…the People’s Bank of China (PboC) has announced that its digital RMB cross-border settlement system will be fully connected to the ten ASEAN nations and six Middle Eastern countries, implying that about 38% of global trade could bypass the US dollar dominated SWIFT network.”

Although the Proshare article was published after our most recently released podcast episode was recorded on CaribCoin, the thrust by China to establish a global alternative to the SWIFT network is particularly relevant to the Caribbean region, as we move towards establishing our own regional payment platforms and reduce our reliance on the SWIFT for intraregional money transfers.

SWIFT? What is it?

The SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) system is a global messaging network that financial institutions use to securely exchange information and instructions for financial transactions, which is considered the backbone of international money transfers. SWIFT does not actually transfer funds. Instead, it is a secure platform that uses a standardised coding system, SWIFT codes or Business Identifier Code (BIC) codes, to identify banks and financial institutions globally and to exchange standardised financial messages between banks, instructing them to transfer funds.

Due to the well-established network of over 10,000 financial institutions in over 200 countries worldwide, its robust security, standardised messaging format and interoperability across different market infrastructures, languages, networks and asset types, SWIFT has become a trusted system for international financial transactions. However, it also has some drawbacks.

First, international SWIFT transfers can take several business days to complete, as transactions need to pass through several intermediary banks. Second, it also means that these transactions can be expensive, due to fees charged by these intermediary banks, which can make the end cost of a transaction hard to predict. Many of us have experienced either sending or receiving funds by international transfer, with the funds received being several dollars less than the sent amount.

Third, it is very difficult to track the exact location of a transfer in real time. Typically here in the Caribbean, if you have sent a payment that seems to be taking a long time to get to the recipient, the sending bank can only confirm whether or not the transfer has been sent. On the flip side, if you are awaiting to receive a payment, your bank, as the receiving bank, can only confirm whether the money has been received. Trying to track the funds can be a headache, as your bank might only be able to raise a query through the banking network for which an answer may be received days or weeks later.

Finally, and perhaps most applicable in today’s geopolitical climate, due to its role in global finance, the SWIFT system can be used as a tool for applying financial sanctions, which can disrupt international financial flows to countries. For example, in 2012 and 2018, Iranian banks were disconnected from the SWIFT network, to curb Iran’s nuclear programme, which adversely affected effect in the country’s economy, by limiting its ability to conduct international trade, especially oil exports. Similarly, in 2022, as part of the international sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, several Russian banks were excluded from SWIFT.

So what’s so special about a digital RMB?

The Chinese renminbi (RMB), which is the official currency of China, also has a digital equivalent known as the e-CNY (or Digital Currency Electronic Payment, DCEP), a central bank digital currency (CBDC) issued by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC). Similar to other CBDCs, of which we have a few in the Caribbean region, it is a digital version of the RMB, with its value pegged 1:1 to the physical or fiat currency.

Like other CBDCs and digital currencies, digital RMB (also known as digital yuan) transactions are faster and cheaper than traditional methods. However, unlike Caribbean-based CBDCs, the digital RMB can facilitate both domestic and international transactions, with the latter in particular being considerably faster, seconds as opposed to days or weeks, and orders of magnitude (such as a tenth) cheaper than SWIFT transactions.

Although the digital RMB is being rolled out across China and has been gaining traction, it is also being used internationally. A major example is the “Project mBridge,” a collaborative effort involving the central banks of China, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, “to tackle some of the key inefficiencies in cross-border payments, including high costs, low speed and operational complexities.”

With Project mBridge considered a success, the use of the digital RMB cross-border settlement system has now been extended to over 16 Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern countries. Further, 87% of countries worldwide are reported to have systems compatible with the digital RMB(Source: Proshare). It is thus becoming a working alternative to existing cross-border settlement systems.

What does this mean for us in the Caribbean?

If there is any important takeaway from the changes occurring in global trade, finance and cross-border settlement, is the fact the Caribbean region is on the right track to establish its own regional payment rails. The use of the digital RMB for cross-border payments should accelerate existing efforts to implement the Pan African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and CaribCoin in the region and at the very least, claw back some control of regional payments, instead of having to use SWIFT whenever transactions require a change in currency.

Ultimately, the digital RMB cross-border settlement system is signalling a rewriting of traditional norms, thanks to technology. Blockchain technology, the internet, and digital currency rails, among other digital systems and technologies, are turning existing power dynamics on their heads and forcing us to question the continued utility and viability of long-entrenched systems.

Image credit:  Wikipedia;  Freepik; Wikimedia Commons

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising industries and reshaping the way businesses operate. As technology advances, AI’s potential impact on the long-term future of business is becoming increasingly evident. Moreover, in the Caribbean region, although AI integration has been slower than in other regions, it is still happening, and to a considerable degree, is inevitable if organisations and businesses wish to remain competitive and efficient in the long term. We thus highlight the key ways AI is expected to transform the Caribbean business landscape.

1. Enhanced decision-making with data-driven insights

AI algorithms excel at analysing vast amounts of data to uncover patterns and trends that are often invisible to human analysts. By leveraging AI-driven analytics – which could be considered next-level business intelligence and data analytics – businesses can make more informed decisions.

Predictive analytics, for example, allows businesses to anticipate market trends, optimise inventory, and personalise customer experiences, resulting in more data-driven strategies, more precise decision-making and reduced risks.

2. Automation of routine tasks

AI-powered automation is expected to streamline repetitive and time-consuming tasks across a broad range of industries. From customer service chatbots to robotic process automation (RPA) in finance and HR, AI allows employees to focus on higher-value tasks that require creativity and strategic thinking, which not only increases efficiency but also reduces operational costs over time.

Having said this, this trend is likely to cause upheaval in the job market, as existing employees in some roles may need to be reskilled or upskilled, and the transition for some organisations and individuals may be expensive, disruptive and, ideally, should be managed. Nevertheless, current functions and tasks attached to particular roles will change in the long term.

3. Personalised customer experiences

AI enables businesses to deliver highly personalised experiences by analysing customer behaviour and preferences. For example, AI-driven recommendation engines, like those used by e-commerce platforms, suggest products tailored to individual tastes. Further, AI can enhance customer service by providing instant responses through chatbots and virtual assistants, ensuring a seamless and engaging customer journey.

The use of AI to improve customer experience is not new, but with the technology becoming affordable and more accessible, more businesses and organisations will integrate into their digital platforms. Moreover, it may become the norm, or there may be an expectation, of personalised service, and thus an inherent pressure for organisations to integrate AI systems and models to better assist and support customers.

4. Revolutionising supply chain management

The supply chain is one of the most critical components of any business. In the Caribbean region, a broad range of challenges exist: from securing raw materials, some of which may have to be imported, to equipment maintenance, fulfilment and delivery. Hence, being able to leverage AI to manage all of the moving parts, some of which might not fully be under the business’s control, would be welcomed.

AI can be used to, among other things, predict demand fluctuations, optimise routes for logistics, and even monitor equipment for predictive maintenance. These capabilities lead to reduced waste, improved efficiency and cost savings.

5. Driving innovation in product development

Developing new products (or services) and ensuring that they are a proper fit for a particular market can be a time-consuming and iterative process, as various surveys and tests are conducted, the responses analysed, and recommendations made on adjustments that ought to be made, or whether the team needs to go back to the drawing board. AI can accelerate product development by analysing consumer feedback, market trends, and competitor activities.

Businesses can use AI to identify unmet needs and develop products that resonate with their target audience. Further, AI-powered tools like generative design software allow companies to create innovative solutions faster than ever before, not only speeding up the iterative process but also the time taken to get robust and well-considered products to market.

6. Strengthening cybersecurity

As businesses become more digital, cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, as was discussed in our most recent 2025 Expert Insights instalment with Sean Slattery. In that conversation, Sean shared that threat actors are also using AI, which is having a growing impact on the types and sophistication of the threats.

To that end, AI is playing a pivotal role in detecting and preventing cyberattacks by identifying unusual patterns and responding in real time. AI-driven cybersecurity tools can analyse large datasets to predict potential vulnerabilities, providing businesses with a proactive defence against threats.

7. Facilitating remote work and collaboration

The rise of remote work has underscored the importance of efficient virtual collaboration tools. As more people travel or relocate, the work-from-anywhere concept is being tested. Individuals not only need to remain connected to their organisations but also need access to various tools and services that have been designed with hybrid or remote work arrangements in mind.

AI is enhancing such tools by automating meeting transcription, summarising key points, and improving communication through real-time language translation. These advancements, among others, are increasing productivity and connectivity, regardless of physical location.

8. Transforming talent management

AI is reshaping how companies recruit, train, and retain talent. Intelligent recruitment platforms can analyse resumes, assess candidates, and even predict cultural fit. Further, AI-powered training tools, such as adaptive learning platforms, can customise employee development programmes to individual needs, ensuring a more skilled and engaged workforce.

Though it could be argued that AI use in recruitment can be impersonal, it can also be impartial and not suffer from fatigue when having to wade through hundreds or even thousands of applications. Further, candidates are increasingly using AI to generate resumés and cover letters, and so organisations could find themselves inundated with applications that must be efficiently reviewed.

In summary, the long-term future of business will undoubtedly be shaped by AI’s transformative potential, as it is poised to become an integral part of every industry. Businesses and organisations that embrace AI strategically will not only gain a competitive edge but also position themselves as leaders in an increasingly digital world.

Image credit: Freepik

This episode is also available on SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music!!

As we become increasingly data-aware, matters related to the control of and the rights to data have emerged. The owners of data have rights and responsibilities, but so do entities that collect the data and have some control over the data.

In the Caribbean region, digital sovereignty has been a growing issue, especially in light of the ongoing geopolitical manoeuvrings that have been occurring globally, which are likely to become more frequent and destabilising. Arguments are thus being made for Caribbean governments to adopt the principles of digital sovereignty so that government data is stored in the region and not in the cloud or in servers in other jurisdictions over which they do not control.

On the other hand, every citizen has agency, and regarding their personal data, some rights and protections have been established in law. However, can digital agency be at odds with digital sovereignty? That question, among others, is discussed in our latest podcast episode.

Introducing our guest

Matthew Cowen is an IT veteran who has been based in Martinique for 20 years and has over 30 years of experience in the industry. He specialises in researching the digital ecosystems of the Caribbean. He founded a boutique consultancy called dgtlfutures that helps micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) develop and implement digital transformation strategies and works closely with companies digitalising their operations chain.

Matthew is also involved in Internet Governance in the region and is an ARIN Fellow. He authors a newsletter called The Future is Digital, which you can find on his site, matthewcowen.org, along with a regularly updated blog on his current work. Matthew also teaches various tech-related subjects at the degree and master’s levels in three further education establishments in Martinique.

Insights into our conversation

Digital sovereignty and digital agency are topics that are not commonly discussed, but as internet users and the owners of personal data, at the very least, we ought to recognise our own agency: the control we have, and consequently, the onus that might be on us to say how, when, where and under what circumstances our data can be used.

At the same time, governments have an obligation to their citizens to keep citizen data safe, whilst also balancing other imperatives. However, the unifying force that the internet was initially envisaged to be is increasingly giving way to exercises of power and control by nation-states and large corporations.

This conversation with Matthew does not result in simple or pat answers, but one thing is clear: Caribbean countries and citizens must understand their power and responsibilities in the digital realm, especially since the internet has become an arena that increasingly others wish to control. Below are the main questions that drive this episode’s discussion.

1. How would you differentiate between digital sovereignty and digital agency?
2. What specific aspects of the digital realm should a country have sovereign control over?
3. How can individuals and communities be empowered to exercise greater digital agency?
4. Could digital sovereignty lead to increased fragmentation of the internet?
5. How can we balance the need for individual digital agency with the need for online safety and security?
6. How do the goals of digital sovereignty and digital agency intersect or conflict?
7. Can a country achieve digital sovereignty without respecting the digital agency of its citizens?
8. How can individuals protect their own digital agency in the face of powerful corporations and governments?

We would love to hear your thoughts!

Do leave us a comment either here beneath this article, or on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages, or via Twitter, @ICTPulse.

Also, if you or a member of your network is interested in joining us for an episode, do get in touch.

Let’s make it happen!

Select links

Below are links to some of the organisations and resources that either were mentioned during the episode, or otherwise, might be useful:

• Matthew Cowen  website  |  LinkedIn
• Tech Policy Press article, Why 2024 Was The Worst Year for Internet Shutdowns
• Le Monde article, The TikTok ban in New Caledonia is a first in France that raises rule-of-law questions
• Access Now article, First-time culprit: France blocks TikTok in New Caledonia
• The Rest is History Podcast  BBC Sounds |  Apple  |  Spotify  | YouTube

Images credits:Images credit:  M Cowen;  wirestock (Freepik);  Freepik; Pete Linforth (Pixabay)

Music credit: The Last Word (Oui Ma Chérie), by Andy Narrell

Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

The internet. Originally conceived as a borderless, open network that would connect the world through a seamless flow of information, in recent years, a phenomenon known as internet fragmentation has been gradually reshaping the global digital landscape. This fragmentation is being driven by political, economic, and technological factors that threaten the integrity of the internet as a single, unified network. As different countries and entities seek greater control over online data and infrastructure, the internet is increasingly being divided into isolated digital territories. This article explores how internet fragmentation is evident today, the long-term implications of this trend, and how you can get more involved.

Drivers of internet fragmentation

The growing fragmentation of the internet is being driven by a shift from a desire to maintain a cohesive network to one where national and regional interests trump the benefits to the whole. Key indicators include the following:

• Regulatory and policy divergence. First,governments worldwide are imposing different regulations on how data is collected, stored, and transferred across borders. For example, China operates a highly controlled internet with strict censorship and local alternatives to global platforms like Google and Facebook. Additionally, in the European Union, althoughdesigned to protect user privacy, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) creates barriers for companies operating across multiple jurisdictions. Also, Russia has established a framework to disconnect from the global internet, allowing the country to operate its own internal network in times of crisis. These approaches are evidence of the splintering that is occurring as countries try to ring-fence their domain.
• Forced breakup of platforms and services. Some countries have banned or restricted access to certain digital services, thus forcing users to rely on national alternatives. For example, Western social media platforms are often blocked in China, giving rise to local giants like WeChat and Weibo. On the flipside, the U.S. and some European countries have restricted the use of Chinese technology, such as Huawei’s 5G infrastructure, over security concerns.
• The splintering of the technical infrastructure. Countries are increasingly building independent internet infrastructure, such as localised cloud computing services and alternative Domain Name Systems (DNS). There are thus concerns about inconsistent access to websites and services across different regions as the possibility of multiple, competing root DNS servers emerges.
• Cybersecurity and digital sovereignty measures. The rise in cyberattacks, state-sponsored hacking and heightened geopolitical tensions has prompted nations to strengthen their control over digital infrastructure. Cybersecurity policies often include data localisation requirements, forcing global companies to store user data within specific countries.

Long-term implications of internet fragmentation

The growing fragmentation of the internet has far-reaching consequences for countries worldwide in terms of their economies, innovation, security, and fostering continued global cooperation. Key long-term implications include:

• Economic and trade barriers. The fragmentation of digital markets complicates international trade, as companies must navigate different sets of regulations and infrastructure standards, resulting in increased operational costs. Further, startups and smaller businesses are likely to struggle to expand internationally, as they lack the resources to comply with multiple regulatory frameworks.
• Reduced global connectivity and innovation. The internet’s original promise of fostering global communication and collaboration is being undermined. Organisations and individuals face greater hurdles when attempting to access global markets or share knowledge across borders, and divergent regulations and restrictions may lead to duplicative research and inefficiencies in technological advancements.
• Heightened geopolitical tensions. The emerging divisions of the internet align with existing geopolitical rivalries, such as the U.S.-China tech competition. Increasingly, countries may use digital policies as tools of economic warfare, imposing sanctions or restrictions on rival nations. Further, countries with greater control over their digital ecosystems may restrict access to external information, promoting nationalist narratives and limiting exposure to global perspectives.
• Security and privacy risks. A fragmented internet complicates global cybersecurity coordination, making it harder to combat threats like cybercrime, misinformation, and digital espionage. Data localisation requirements may also create vulnerabilities, as storing data in specific jurisdictions can expose it to government surveillance or weaker cybersecurity standards.
• The end of a unified digital commons. If internet fragmentation continues unchecked, the world may see a future where different regions operate distinct, incompatible digital ecosystems. Instead of a singular, global internet, users may experience isolated versions shaped by national policies and corporate interests.

Combatting internet fragmentation

Efforts to address internet fragmentation are being made by various international organisations, governments, and industry leaders. However, the extent to which Caribbean countries have been participating in these conversations seems to be limited. Nevertheless, listed below are some of the spaces in which internet fragmentation is being discussed:

• The Internet Governance Forum (IGF): The United Nations-backed platform that brings together governments, businesses, and civil society to discuss policies ensuring an open and accessible internet. The next IGF, IGF 2025, will take place from 23—27 June in Lillestrøm, Norway.
• World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS): An initiative led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to promote universal access and digital cooperation. The WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025 will take place from 7—11 July 2025 at Palexpo in Geneva, Switzerland
• Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN): Works to maintain a single, globally interoperable Domain Name System (DNS). ICANN’s next Policy Forum, ICANN83, will be held from 9—12 June 2025, in Prague, the Czech Republic, and its next Annual General Meeting (ICANN 84) will be held from 25—30 October 2025, in Muscat, Oman.
• The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF): Develops open standards to ensure seamless communication across different internet infrastructures. IETF 122 concluded on 21 March 2025 in Bangkok, but the next meeting, IETH 124, will be held from 1—7 November 2025 in Montreal, Canada.

Final thoughts

Internet fragmentation is no longer a theoretical risk but a reality that is already shaping the digital landscape. As countries and organisations seek to assert control over the digital sphere, the vision of a free and open internet faces growing challenges. While some regulation and security measures are necessary, excessive fragmentation threatens to stifle innovation, disrupt international trade, and deepen geopolitical divides. Addressing this issue requires a delicate balance between national sovereignty and global digital cooperation, but without proactive efforts and a willingness to maintain an open and interoperable internet, the future of the internet may be one of increasing division rather than unity.

Image credit:  Rawpixel.com (Freepik)

Without a doubt, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we, as individuals, businesses and even societies, access and analyse information and how we optimise systems and processes to become more efficient and effective.  However, all too often, our keenness to use public or free-for-use AI platforms and models can cause us to lose control of our personal or company data, as the information and datasets uploaded are stored and used indefinitely by an AI platform. Moreover, as privacy, data protection and digital governance rules come increasingly to the fore, both private and public sector organisations, in particular, must become more judicious and responsible in how they manage sensitive information.

A growing trend has been for organisations to create their own digital space so that they do not lose control of their digital assets, software or processes that are integral to their operation. The same is happening with respect to AI. Using AI platforms that operate in the cloud (somewhere) exposes companies and governments to be subject to the whims and fancies of the platform owners or even other governments and, consequently, the coercive power they hold.

What is sovereign AI?

Sovereign AI refers to the development, deployment, and control of AI systems within a country’s jurisdiction to ensure that data governance, decision-making, and infrastructure remain within national boundaries. Unlike AI solutions developed by global tech giants, sovereign AI prioritises local ownership, regulatory oversight, and alignment with a country’s economic and social interests. It thus seeks to mitigate risks related to data privacy, economic dependency, and foreign influence over critical AI-driven systems, which are particularly relevant in sectors such as healthcare, finance, agriculture, and public administration, where national autonomy over data and decision-making is crucial.

Traditionally, access to AI capabilities is outsourced to large multinational corporations such as Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI, which have developed powerful AI models hosted on cloud infrastructure, typically outside of national jurisdictions. Countries and organisations subscribe to these services, granting access to local data and, in some cases, relinquishing control over AI-driven insights and decisions.

On the other hand, sovereign AI ensures that AI models, data storage, and computing power remain under national or regional control, which requires the requisite resources and frameworks to be in place. However, this approach aligns with digital sovereignty principles – by ensuring that nations control their technological futures rather than depending on external providers.

Why Caribbean countries should consider sovereign AI

Although Caribbean countries might argue that they are challenged to embrace sovereign AI due to the additional resources that would be needed for its implementation, the fact of the matter is that adopting sovereign AI could foster economic resilience, enhance cybersecurity, and strengthen regional cooperation. More specifically, ensuring local control over AI solutions would:

• Protect sensitive data by limiting our reliance on foreign cloud infrastructure thus reducing exposure to cybersecurity risks and data privacy breaches
• Foster greater economic independence by reducing capital outflows to accesses external AI expertise and services by businesses and builds indigenous expertise.
• Build local AI talent and expertise which can result in increased innovation and digital entrepreneurship
• Adapt AI for local and regional needs, such as to better address hurricane prediction, marine conservation, and small-scale agriculture.

Having said this, to implement a robust sovereign AI framework that truly benefits a country, several areas must be addressed including the following

• Infrastructure development, by investing in high-performance computing infrastructure and cloud computing facilities to support AI research, training and deployment
• Policy and governance, by developing AI regulations that ensure ethical AI use, data privacy, and security, establishing public-private partnerships to encourage investment in sovereign AI solutions and implementing  AI-driven policies to improve governance, efficiency, and economic planning.
• Talent and skill development, by expanding AI and data science education in colleges, universities and technical institutes, and promoting AI literacy across public and private sectors to build a workforce ready for digital transformation
• Innovation and entrepreneurship, by offering government incentives for AI startups and local innovation hubs and supporting open-source AI projects tailored to Caribbean socio-economic needs.
• Regional cooperation, by creating a regional AI regulatory framework to harmonise standards and ensure cross-border cooperation and encouraging Caribbean-wide AI collaborations to share resources and expertise.

Conclusion

Sovereign AI presents a compelling opportunity for Caribbean countries and the region to take control of our digital futures. It will not only strengthen countries’ national security but also unlock new avenues for innovation and economic growth across the region. However, to do so successfully requires investment and an intentionally built ecosystem. The change in mindset is clear. We must be proactive to reduce dependence on external AI providers and create AI solutions that align with local economic, cultural, and governance needs.

Image credit: Gerd Altmann (Pixabay)

Over the past few weeks, there have been some interesting developments in the Caribbean tech space that might have been overlooked but emphasise long-known truths about the state of the internet in the region. First, in the Cayman Islands, it was reported that on completion of an extensive investigation, the Utility Regulation and Competition Office (OfReg) determined that Flow’s infrastructure was in a poor state. Safety concerns had not been addressed, there was a poor understanding of the management of cell towers and the associated risks, and the company had failed to comply with directions from the regulator. OfReg thus ordered Flow to undertake immediate remediation, including addressing the structural integrity of its towers.

Second, earlier this week, on Tuesday, 4 March, both Flow and Digicel in Jamaica experienced major internet service outages.  The service disruption was reportedly due to acts of vandalism, specifically fibre optic cables being intentionally cut, which affected both residential and business customers across the country.

At the same time Jamaica was grappling with its outage, Digicel customers in Trinidad and Tobago were experiencing disruptions in the IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) and mobile/cellular service. However, customers were assured that the problem was not in Trinidad and Tobago, but in Jamaica, where “’multiple major fibre breaks’ at the company’s international landing station” (Source: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday).

The above incidents are just the reports that made the news. It is well known that customers across the region have had longstanding complaints about telecommunications service quality, particularly the mobile/cellular and internet services. Network congestion, dropped calls, dropped internet connectivity, exceedingly slow transmission speeds, and unstable internet connectivity are among the challenges experienced. And though it could be argued that these incidents also occur in more developed countries and regions, it is likely the frequency is considerably less and, thus, is not as crippling to user productivity and the experience.

Could satellite internet be a solution?

In a completely different vein, Caribbean regulators have been grappling with how to license Starlink, the satellite internet constellation project developed by SpaceX. As was noted in our article, How much of a threat is Starlink to Caribbean telecoms markets?, “countries that are still challenged to provide reliable telecommunications services to their entire population”.

An important concern regulators have is the change in market dynamics that would occur if Starlink is licensed in their market. Starlink’s service is at a much lower price point for the speeds offered than the service provided by existing players, which, although could initially inject some competition back into the internet market, in the long term, a duopoly or monopoly could again emerge. Having said this, regulators in some Caribbean countries have licensed Starlink, and in others, citizens are using the service, although, officially, the company is not authorised to provide services in the country.

It must be emphasised that although might be receiving the most focus, other satellite internet providers exist. For example, Hughes Network System, ViaSat and Inmarsat are among the long-time players in the field, with Amazon’s Project Kuiper being one of the newer satellite internet initiatives. Hence, the precedent established with Starlink could have long-term repercussions.

Starlink was recently licensed to provide service in Belize and in the Cayman Islands, the OfReg has approved the sale of the terminals, though, in both countries, its operation is limited. In the case of Belize,  the service is restricted to  “emergency situations, areas that are unserved or underserved, and on vessels and aircraft under the Earth Station in Motion system” (Source:  San Pedro Sun). Similarly, in the Cayman Islands, Starlink’s service can be used on Cayman Islands registered vessels or aircraft and in emergencies when no other service providers are available. However, “Day-to-day use of Starlink or other satellite-based voice or internet service providers is not currently licensed in the Cayman Islands” (Source:  Cayman Compass).

So do you need backup internet service?

Possibly. To a considerable degree, it depends on how critical it is to have continuous and proper-functioning internet access. For example, in Jamaica, some people have both Digicel and Flow services at home or their offices, so the other could act as a failsafe should one of them fail. However, what is often overlooked is that although Digicel and Flow are licensed separately in the countries where they both have a presence, they do share infrastructure, especially that which facilitates international connectivity. As was mentioned earlier, the recent fibre optic cable damage occurred at the international landing station, and so both networks were adversely affected.

For people with significant connectivity sensitivity, meaning either that they cannot afford to be without internet access or need to have stable access, having a backup supply might be a worthwhile consideration. Satellite internet connectivity could be especially appropriate as it would not have the resiliency vulnerabilities our existing terrestrial providers have been experiencing.

Having said this, price also needs to be considered. Though satellite connectivity through Starlink, for example, might currently be cheaper than the service offered by local players, it is still an expense. Hence, the need for backup connectivity, which might be occasionally or rarely used, would need to be justified against the cost of the equipment and maintaining the service.

Images credit:  Freepik;  rawpixel.com (Freepik); zirconicusso (Freepik)

Education has played a transformative role in Caribbean society, as it has lifted recent generations out of poverty by opening up a broader range of career opportunities, thus improving their standard of living and overall life prospects. However, although countries still emphasise the importance of education, the World Bank recently released a scathing assessment of the Caribbean education system, which is characterised as being ‘in crisis’ (Source:  Barbados Today). At the heart of its findings were outdated teaching methods, inadequate infrastructure, and unequal access as factors hindering student success.

This assessment comes against the backdrop of Caribbean countries positioning themselves to become more digital, by among other things, trying to have better quality and more robust internet infrastructure, embracing Artificial Intelligence, growing their digital economies, and digitally transforming their organisations and processes. Moreover, to capitalise on current and emerging opportunities in our increasingly digital world, education is crucial – though it may look considerably different from decades ago. Nevertheless, from the World Bank’s perspective, the region seems to be further behind globally than it realises.

Students being left behind

Although it might be more anecdotal than fact, there has been a sense that although the Caribbean education system and curriculum might not be as advanced as other countries, the Caribbean student can hold their own anywhere. They tend to excel when attending colleges and universities outside the region, having benefitted from the rigour and inadequacies of the Caribbean classroom. However, that success may be a more likely outcome for students who were able to successfully matriculate through the Caribbean education system and take advantage of what limited opportunities were offered.

A huge challenge that the World Bank’s assessment cited was the wide disparity in the quality of the primary and secondary schools in Caribbean countries and the inadequate provisions that have been made to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions and other exigencies on school continuity. The failure was grimly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic when schools had to remain closed, which ministries of education, school administrators and teachers unprepared to engage in remote or digital education. After several weeks and much fumbling, some systems were established, but students, especially those from low-income households that did not readily have internet access or enough internet-suitable devices, were at a considerable disadvantage. The impact of inconsistent access to education for 12 to 18 months, when most school closures were in effect, will be long-term and far-reaching. Students who were left behind have been unable to catch up, as little or no remediation arrangements were (or have been) made to narrow that gap.

We also have to consider the more favourable future students are likely to have if they can attend a ‘good school’. ‘Good schools’ tend to have access to more and better-quality resources than other schools, which often is reflected in student performance and examination results. Further, the World Bank’s findings indicate that countries are not investing enough in primary and secondary education, which may be exacerbating the conditions in schools, especially those located in more challenging communities and with weak fundraising capacity, where school administrators are trying to stretch as best as they with the limited resources provided. Ultimately, students attending not-so-good schools are at a severe disadvantage from the start, from which they are unlikely to escape.

Schools gaming the CXC results to the detriment of students

It is also interesting to highlight the importance placed on the results of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) examinations, especially those for the June Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) sitting. The results are big news when they are released in August, as schools and countries measure themselves against each other: which school(s) had the best-performing students or the most passes, etc. In other words, the CXC results have become a point of pride and a marker of the prestige for the schools that have consistently done well. However, it has also resulted in some schools putting the optics of their results ahead of students’ education prowess.

For example, some schools do not allow students who failed subjects to repeat the examination either in the January CXC sitting, as they have made no provision to participate at that time. Furthermore, they may not allow students, especially if they are considered external students, to join the June examination sitting for fear that they could damage the school’s performance during that sitting.

Although it could be argued that no school would want a student to fail an examination, we also have the situation where schools are barring students from being tested for subjects they have been studying for fear they will fail the examination. However, it also means that some students leave secondary schools with official results in a few ad hoc subjects, which are not representative of all that they have studied, regardless of the results.

The impact on the workplace

Without a doubt, the current and emerging situation is worrying for employers, as they have been expressing concern about how ill-prepared high school and university graduates are for the workplace. In the Caribbean tech space, the situation is especially acute, as new and more sophisticated technologies are being used in our local markets, but skilled personnel in those technologies and the attendant services are too few to non-existent.

Further, although it is still early days, we have to consider the impact of AI on education, skills development, and the workplace. With students now using Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, Llama and Bard to do their homework, write reports and otherwise execute some of the tasks they were required to do to ensure comprehension and learning, the traditional forms of teaching and assessment urgently need to evolve. It can no longer be assumed that students are doing their assignments without AI assistance or intervention, and so little assurance that they are learning the concepts that were required to learn.

Having said this, in the emerging workplace, individuals may no longer need to know specific concepts or principles by heart, as they can be quickly researched online. It is more important to be able to skillfully apply those principles, to know how to troubleshoot a situation should a problem arise, and the likely blind spots or biases of the digital tools used, and consequently, the degree of reliance that can be placed on those tools. In other words, the knowledge and expertise required are far beyond the learning concepts by heart.

In summary, the World Bank’s assessment of Caribbean education should have emphasised much of what we already know. The issues discussed in this article are just the tip of the iceberg. Much more can be said about these areas and many others. However, in being ‘publicly shamed’, it remains to see what individual Caribbean countries and the region as a whole intend to do to manage this crisis.

Image credit: jcomp (Freepik)

Within the coming weeks, some Caribbean countries will be culminating their Carnival season, which began earlier in the New Year, whilst other countries will soon be launching theirs. To varying degrees, Carnival has become a must-experience event, with countries experiencing an uptick in visitors during that time, especially with members of their diaspora scheduling their visit home during that time.

However, arguments have also been made that Caribbean countries still have not fully leveraged Carnival in the digital space. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, when international travel was difficult, and mass events had to be cancelled, options such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) were suggested as ways to allow individuals to experience Carnival and other local attractions, essentially buoying countries’ tourism industries until things returned to normal. However, very limited progress was made on that front during the Pandemic and in the years since.

For example, in 2022, news reports suggested Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Carnival intended to expand its Carnival, Vincy Mas, to the Metaverse as a means of exporting the country’s culture. However, whether the exploration has been completed and virtual participation in Vincy Mas is possible has not been announced.

Having said this, AR and VR are powerful technologies with the potential to revolutionise various aspects of our lives. We discussed this potential in a podcast conversation in 2020 with 4^th Dymension, a software development firm out of Montserrat, which had virtually re-created Plymouth, the former capital of Montserrat that has been buried in volcanic ash since the mid-1990s. However, although AR and VR offer immersive experiences that are transforming industries and reshaping how we interact with the world around us, they still have not gained much traction across the region nearly five years later.

VR and AR: how are they different

Generally, AR and VR tend to be considered in the same breath: different but similar. However, the can serve different purposes and offer experiences.

First, VR creates entirely immersive, computer-generated environments that users can interact with. Typically, to experience VR, a headset that blocks out the real world and provides visual and auditory stimuli that simulate a different reality is required.  

On the other hand, AR seeks to enhance our perception of the real world by overlaying digital information onto it. Hence, unlike VR, which creates entirely simulated environments, AR integrates digital content into our existing surroundings, allowing this technology to be accessed via smartphones, tablet computers, or specialised AR glasses.  

Applications of AR and VR in 2025

The differing characteristics of AR and VR make them better suited for some applications than others. Exhibit 1 lists some examples of which thereafter, are outlined.

Thanks to the immersive and interactive experience it can offer, VR has found widespread use in gaming and entertainment. VR games and movies can transport players or viewers to fully developed worlds in which they are fully immersed and engaged.  

VR is being used to create realistic training simulations for various professions, including pilots, surgeons, and soldiers. These simulations allow individuals to practice complex tasks in a safe and controlled environment, thus improving their skills and preparedness.  

VR is being used in therapy and rehabilitation to treat phobias, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorders, for example. It can also support physical rehabilitation by providing an engaging environment that patients can focus on or motivating exercise to accelerate their recovery.  

VR has also made inroads in design and architecture by allowing architects and designers to create virtual walkthroughs of buildings and spaces, which in turn enable clients to experience the design before construction begins. Offering such a visual and immersive perspective not only facilitates better communication and collaboration but can also result in improved design outcomes.  

Finally, VR technology has been underpinning platforms for social interaction, such as VRChat, Rec Room, AltspaceVR, and Facebook Horizon Workrooms, which allow people to connect and interact with each other in virtual spaces. Such platforms are designed to serve different purposes and provide different experiences, but generally, can foster a sense of community and connection, especially for individuals who may be geographically separated.  

On the other hand, AR is transforming retail and the shopping experience by allowing customers to virtually try on clothes, visualise furniture in their homes, or preview how makeup products would look on them. Such platforms enhance customer engagement and reduce purchase hesitation.  

AR is also revolutionising education and learning by creating interactive and engaging educational experiences. Students can explore 3D models of historical artefacts, dissect animals and plants virtually, or embark on virtual field trips, thus making learning more immersive and memorable.  

AR is being used in healthcare to assist medical professionals. For example, it is being used to visualise patient anatomy during surgery and to provide real-time guidance during medical procedures. AR-powered apps are also helping patients manage their conditions and adhere to treatment plans, thus giving them greater control and involvement in their own care.

In manufacturing and engineering, AR is being used to streamline complex tasks by providing workers with step-by-step instructions, real-time data overlays, and remote expert assistance. Such applications are improving efficiency, reducing errors, and enhancing safety.  

Finally, AR-powered navigation apps are overlaying digital directions onto the real-world view, making it easier for pedestrians and drivers to plot a course and reach their destination more efficiently and safely. Further, AR can also provide real-time information about nearby points of interest, thus enhancing exploration and discovery and increasing our appreciation of the world around us.

Final thoughts…

The above examples of real-world AR and VR applications ought to demonstrate how powerful and sophisticated these technologies have become. They are poised to become even more integrated into our daily lives by transforming how we interact with digital content and the world around us. Moreover, we can expect to see more sophisticated applications emerge, blurring the lines between the physical and digital worlds.

Unfortunately, we in the Caribbean region still have not scratched the surface of what AR and VR can do, and neither have we begun to meaningfully leverage it to revolutionise various aspects of our lives in 2025 and how we interact with the world around us. There is much work to be done.

Image credit:  Tumisu from (Pixabay)

Over the past week, several news outlets highlighted the speech delivered by One Communications (Guyana) Inc. at the recently concluded Annual General Meeting of the Caribbean Association of National Telecommunication Organizations (CANTO) in Curaçao. The speech, which was delivered by the company’s President of International Operations, Damien Blackburn, emphasised the importance of collaboration for Caribbean countries and the region as a whole to achieve a ‘One Gigabit Society’.

The concept of a One Gigabit Society has been around for nearly a decade when the European Commission (EC) outlined the following vision in its Connectivity for a European Gigabit Society (2016) policy, which should be achieved by 2025:

• 1 Gbps (gigabit per second) speeds for all major socio-economic drivers and key institutions (schools, hospitals, businesses, transportation hubs).
• Uninterrupted 5G coverage in all urban areas and major roads and transport paths.
• 100 Mbps (megabit per second)minimum for all European households, upgradable to 1 Gbps.

The Caribbean region has also been exploring the realisation of a Gigabit Society through a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Working Group. In a 2024 report entitled, Towards a Caribbean Gigabit Society 2030, the Working Group proposed a plan through which “to create a sustainable, digitally integrated, globally competitive region” (Source:  Stabroek News). However, many of us may not be familiar with the One Gigabit Society concept and, more so, what is being envisaged for our region.

So what is ‘One Gigabit Society’?

The “One Gigabit Society” is a vision for digital connectivity where every citizen, business, and public institution has access to high-speed internet with at least 1 Gbps (gigabit per second) speeds. Further, in achieving this target, the following features should also be evident and would need to be addressed:

• Ultra-fast internet access, which would enable seamless streaming, cloud computing, smart cities, and digital transformation
• Digital inclusion, with specific attention being given to eliminating the urban-rural divide with respect to high-speed internet access
• Support for emerging technologies, such as 5G, IoT (Internet of Things), AI, and smart grids rely on high-speed internet.
• More pronounced economic growth due to, among other things, increased productivity, improved efficiency, increased business development and entrepreneurship, and greater support for e-commerce and digital services.
• Enhanced public services, due to improved online access to and delivery of government services and seamless integration of processes within and across government and the wider Public Service.

One Gigabit Society, from a Caribbean perspective

Without a doubt, the goal of realising a One Gigabit Society in the Caribbean region is a noble one as it can help to focus the individual and combined effort of all countries and players. However, to realistically achieve that goal in a timely manner, a comprehensive and cogent plan supported by all key stakeholders must be established and maintained. More importantly, there must be systems to track progress and enforce accountability, so that we all remain aligned and committed to the path agreed.

However, we also ought to consider the gap between where we currently are – as individual countries and a region – and where we supposedly want to be. Currently, that gap is WIDE! Factors contributing to the gap include the following:

• Depending on the country, not all major socio-economic drivers and key institutions have internet access, and if they do, high-speed broadband internet service quality tends to be poor, especially in terms of reliability and transmission speeds.
• Except for Guyana and the Cayman Islands, 5G service has not been deployed in Caribbean/CARICOM countries, and if it exists, service availability is extremely limited. Further, the major telecoms have already advised that they will not be deploying 5G networks in the region in the foreseeable future.
• Transmission speeds for internet service across the region are very uneven. A common and minimum threshold has not been established, and depending on the country, it is considerably less than the 100 Mbps specified in the EC’s target.
• Caribbean countries and the region as a whole are plagued with infrastructure and resilience challenges, which would be exacerbated when the high cost of rolling out and maintaining gigabit fibre networks is considered.
• Thanks to uneven internet access in countries, rural areas still tend to struggle with slower and less reliable speeds than their urban counterparts, which in turn worsens the geographic digital divide.
• To a considerable degree, regulatory policies and frameworks are very dated across the region, and do not properly support our increasingly digital societies, and more specifically, the goal of a One Gigabit Society.
• Internet service affordability is still a challenge – both for individuals and small businesses. Individuals, especially those towards the base of the socio-economic pyramid, cannot afford continuous service, whilst micro and small businesses may only purchase the internet service they can afford and not the service they need. Hence, these existing challenges are likely to become more pronounced should gigabit service be launched without specific interventions.
• The fundamental structures to support e-commerce, digital innovation and entrepreneurship are still lacking. Hence, even if a Gigabit Society was achieved in the foreseeable future, Caribbean countries and, by extension, the region would not be able to leverage that connectivity to accelerate their economic growth and development.

In summary, the One Gigabit Society vision is crucial for advancing technology exports, digital transformation, and economic growth of the Caribbean region. However, a broad range of problems exist that must be overcome. Further, achieving gigabit connectivity would be just the tip of the iceberg. Harnessing that connectivity will be critical and will require careful planning and coordination, along with the active and ongoing support of all countries and stakeholders.

Can Caribbean countries achieve a Gigabit Society by 2030? It is highly unlikely, but it is hoped that we will be well on our way and the target within reach.

Image credit:  shayne_ch13 (Freepik)

In some quarters, insurance is considered a necessary evil. Be it health, life or vehicle insurance to name a few, they can be costly to secure and maintain, but can become invaluable when a crisis occurs. As life becomes increasingly fraught with uncertainty – be it climate or weather-related, politics or wars –

 Insurtech, a fusion of “insurance” and “technology,” is transforming the global insurance landscape by leveraging cutting-edge digital solutions. Unlike traditional insurance models, which rely on paperwork, human intermediaries, and legacy systems, insurtech introduces automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline processes, enhance customer experiences, and reduce costs.

Insurtech is still relatively new worldwide and more so in the Caribbean region. This article should serve as a primer on Insurtech by outlining the differences between traditional insurance, the technologies driving this transformation, the services offered, and some real-world examples of Insurtech in developing countries.

Traditional insurance vs. insurtech

Traditional insurance has long been characterised by cumbersome processes, lengthy claim settlements, and rigid policies. The primary distinctions between traditional insurance and insurtech include:

1. Claims processing. Traditional claims processing is time-consuming, involving extensive paperwork. By leveraging technologies, such as AI and blockchain technology, insurtech accelerates claims settlements by deploying automated and efficient digital processes.
2. Customer experience. Traditional insurers tend to provide one-size-fits-all policies that could not be customised to the needs of their clients. They also rely heavily on agents and manual underwriting, which has perpetuated the rigid approach to the policies that could be secured. On the other hand, insurtech companies offer seamless digital interfaces, personalised and accessible services with greater scope to customise them to clients’ needs.
3. Accessibility. Traditional insurers require in-person visits or phone calls for policy management, which to some degree may have been informed by know-your-customer policies which have become increasingly prevalent in the financial services sector. Insurtech platforms allow users to purchase, modify, and claim policies through mobile apps and websites.
4. Pricing and risk assessment. Conventional insurance firms use broad categories to determine premiums, which again may be due to the policy constraints and the inherent challenges in managing different permutations on policy offerings. However, since insurtech employs data-driven, AI-powered risk assessments, it can offer dynamic, real-time pricing models.

Key technologies powering insurtech

Insurtech leverages various digital technologies and innovations to enhance service efficiency and customer satisfaction. Core technologies that are being deployed include the following:

• AI and machine learning (ML). AI-driven chatbots and ML algorithms analyse vast data sets to improve risk assessment, fraud detection, and claims processing.
• Big data and predictive analytics. By analysing vast datasets, such as those covering customer behaviour, health records, market trends and even historical insurance and risk data, and using AI and other predictive platforms, Insurtech firms can create personalised policies, detect fraudulent claims whilst also managing risk.
• Blockchain technology. As an immutable ledger, blockchain technology can be used to ensures transparency and security in policy issuance, claims verification, and fraud prevention by providing a decentralised and tamper-proof record of all actions and transactions made.
• Internet of Things (IoT). Smart devices, such as telematics in vehicles and wearable health monitors, provide real-time data that help insurers adjust pricing and offer proactive risk management by automating the data collection process, limiting reliance on human and the chances of human error.
• Cloud Computing. Cloud computing facilitates scalable access to storage and computing power, as well as real-time access to insurance data and analysis, which can result in more efficient and cost-effective services.

Examples of insurtech services and coverage

These days, insurtech companies are offering a broad range of insurance products tailored to modern consumer needs. They include:

• On-demand insurance, which allows customers to purchase short-term policies for specific needs, such as travel, rental cars, or gadgets.
• Usage-based insurance (UBI), which is particularly common in vehicle insurance, where the model calculates premiums based on driving habits monitored via telematics.
• Peer-to-peer (P2P) insurance, where groups of policyholders pool their premiums to cover claims collectively, resulting in reduced costs and increased trust.
• Microinsurance, which is generally aimed at low-income populations and offers affordable coverage for health, agriculture, and life insurance.
• Embedded insurance, which integrates insurance coverage into the purchase of other goods and services. A popular example is flight insurance, which can be included when purchasing airline tickets.

Insurtech is making inroads in developing countries

Insurtech is playing a crucial role in increasing insurance penetration in developing nations, where traditional models often fail to reach underserved populations. Noteworthy examples include the following:

• Bima is amobile-based microinsurance platform that offers affordable health and life insurance to low-income individuals across 11 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It partners with telecom companies and insurance companies to provide life, health and accident insurance coverage, among others, via mobile phone.
• Pula is a Kenyan-based Insurtech firm that provides agricultural insurance and digital products to help smallholder farmers endure yield risks and improve their farming practices. It uses data analytics and satellite imaging to provide farmers with insurance against climate risks, ensuring financial stability in case of droughts or floods.
• Coverfox boasts of being the largest insurtech platform in India, which serves as an online aggregator that simplifies insurance comparison, purchase, and claims processing, making insurance more accessible to India’s vast population.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, insurtech is revolutionising the insurance industry by making it more accessible, efficient, and cost-effective. By leveraging AI, blockchain, IoT, and big data, insurtech firms are overcoming the limitations of traditional insurance models, particularly in developing economies. As digital penetration continues to rise, insurtech will play an even more crucial role in enhancing financial inclusion and providing customised insurance solutions worldwide.

Image credit:  Gerd Altmann (Pixabay)