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

In the ever-evolving global governance and digital innovation landscape, two seemingly unrelated phenomena are reshaping how individuals and nations interact: Decentralised Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) and regional and international collaboration efforts among countries. At first glance, these entities exist in vastly different realms—one born out of blockchain technology, the other rooted in geopolitics and diplomacy.

We are revisiting a podcast episode released in 2022 as part of our Fintech in the Caribbean region series on DAOs. Generally, a DAO is a member-owned community with no centralised leadership, and so it is owned and managed by its members. As a decentralised construct, it uses distributed ledger technologies (DLTs), such as blockchain technology, to provide a transparent, secure and efficient platform.

DAOs are one of the fastest-growing segments of the blockchain space. In 2025, the estimated market capitalisation of that segment was USD 50 billion (Source:  CoinMarketCap). However, although DAOs might seem to be a 21^st-century creation, it is not a novel idea. It is just a way of fostering collaboration and consensus among a group to achieve mutually desired goals.

Introducing our guest

Donald O’Brian Porter is an award-winning Software Developer and Entrepreneur, who is passionate about monetising online ventures through creative thinking, search engine optimization, social media integration and due diligence.  He first came to prominence in the Caribbean region as the Founder of ClajaCOM, more commonly known as Claja, which was founded in 2010 and was one of Jamaica’s first social marketplace and featured free online classifieds, shops, event listings, and a feature-rich user dashboard.

Donald is well known in the blockchain space and is the Founder of CaribDAO, a Caribbean-based DAO with a focus on Web3 education, project incubation, and crowdfunding. More recently, he has been the Host of Caribbean Crypto Chat, a weekly live podcast on Binance Live.

Insights into our conversation

Although this interview was recorded in 2022, when blockchain technology, non-fungible tokens and decentralised finance (DeFi) were still all the rage, and Donald’s focus was on the Caribbean region truly capitalising on these technologies, the conversation seems even more relevant today when considered through the lens of Caribbean regionalism.

Across the Caribbean region, we have several multi-country and regional organisations. However, many of them are challenged with realising meaningful and timely progress on their agenda, due to among other things, distrust and the lack of consensus among their member countries.  Donald is passionate about DAOs, as the construct builds on the informal community and trust-based systems that have existed across the region for generations. By giving these informal systems more structure, purpose and scale for greater impact, they have the potential to help the region solve some of its problems. Through CaribDAO, we have an example of how DAOs work and how their principles can be more widely applied for the greater good of the region.

Below are key questions posed to Donald during our conversation:

1. So, to start us off, tell us a bit about your entrepreneurial journey, and how you got into blockchain
2. What is a Decentralised Autonomous Organisation, and how does it work?
3. There seem to be growing concerns that some DAOs might be fronts for fraud. How might someone be able to verify the authenticity of the DAO?
4. Let’s pivot a bit. Talk to us about CaribDAO. When was it established, and what is the problem it is trying to solve?
5. What products or services will CaribDAO be bringing to market?
6. What are some of the drawbacks of using a DAO?
7. What are three (3) questions someone should ask before joining a DAO?

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:

• Donald O’Brien Porter
• Carib DAO     Blog  |  Telegram  | Discord  |  DAO Central
• CaribDAO LitePaper
• CARIB Token
• DAO Central
• Euro News article, Terra Luna crash: What are ‘stablecoins’ and how stable are they really?
• Bloomberg article, How $60 Billion in Terra Coins Went Up in Algorithmic Smoke

Images credit: D Porter; rawpixel.com (Freepik);  Gerd Altmann (Pixabay);  jcomp (Freepik);  Gerd Altmann (Pixabay)

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

Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Monday, 31 March 2025

GovTech Barbados, Zindi announce AI ecosystem partnership

Barbados – Zindi, a global AI community platform established to make data science and artificial intelligence (AI) skills accessible to all, announced a year-long partnership with GovTech Barbados In March… more

Broadcast television returns to Cayman with launch of Compass TV

Cayman Islands – Local television returns to Cayman today with Compass Media’s launch of Compass TV, presenting news and community-focused content across multiple platforms… more

Inaugural meeting of Women of the Caribbean in AI

Caribbean – The regional chapter of the global Women of the Caribbean in AI Governance convened its first meeting virtually on March 26, 2025. There were 30 participants at this first meeting… more

Samsung finds customers want smarter home appliances in 2025

Caribbean – The home appliance industry is undergoing a major transformation in 2025 as consumers prioritize intelligent, efficient, and eco-friendly solutions that seamlessly integrate into their lifestyles… more

‘Information Commission useless’

Guyana – Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton has described the Office of the Commissioner of Information as useless and a waste of public funds as the system has failed to serve Guyanese… more

How TT is faring by regional internet standards?

Trinidad and Tobago – The Internet Society (ISOC) updates its Pulse rankings of countries across a range of connectivity benchmarks… more

Tuesday, 1 April 2025

Beyond Certifications: Charting a path to a cybersecurity career in the Caribbean

Caribbean – When it comes to the cybersecurity field, one question I’m continually asked isn’t how companies should prepare a cyber defence or what threats are most likely to disrupt organisations and society within the region—it’s how to break into and land a job in cybersecurity, specifically in the Caribbean… more

Successful Transition Payment System

Caribbean – The digital payment system in the countries of Curaçao and Sint Maarten successfully switched to the Caribbean guilder during the night of March 31 to April 1, 2025. While the new currency was officially brought into circulation in both countries yesterday, the Caribbean guilder has now also been introduced for digital payment transactions… more

Artificial Intelligence set to enhance occupational health and safety in Guyana – Labour Minister

Guyana – To promote the prevention of occupational accidents in the workplace, artificial intelligence (AI) is being utilised by the Ministry of Labour… more

From Chalkboards to Coding: Guyana’s Digital Leap in Education.

Guyana – The government of Guyana is helping young people get ready for a digital future by investing in digital learning. This effort is led by the Ministry of Education… more

Outsource2Jamaica Conference to focus on driving excellence in Global Services sector

Jamaica –  Global and local leaders, policymakers and other stakeholders within Jamaica’s robust global services sector will be gathering at the Montego Bay Convention Center on April 10, 2025 for the 5th staging of Outsource2Jamaica (O2J2025)… more

Wednesday, 2 April 2025

CAPSS: A game changer for Caricom trade

Caribbean – THE Central Banks of Barbados and the Bahamas have successfully processed a cross-border payment using their respective currencies without the need for an intermediary currency… more

Single income stream risk

Caribbean – MANY Caribbean businesses are intensely focused on their core product or service — the traditional way. While admirable, in today’s digital economy relying solely on a single revenue stream is risky. We’re leaving money on the table… more

Empowering Women and Girls in STEM: A Recap of an Inspiring Event at the University of Guyana

Guyana – The landscape of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is continuously evolving, yet women remain significantly underrepresented in many of these fields. The lack of female representation is not due to a lack of interest or ability but often stems from systemic barriers such as limited access to mentorship, unconscious bias, and a lack of role models… more

ICT Authority now operational — OPM

Jamaica – The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Authority has been officially established to provide a single authoritative voice and framework to improve ICT service delivery across the public sector… more

St. Lucia’s Pierre-Led Administration Invests $500,000 In Youth-Driven Innovation Hub

Saint Lucia –  Saint Lucia’s first-ever Innovation Hub is officially open for business. On March 31, Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre joined the three Saint Lucian founders of Orbtronics, a regionally acclaimed local tech firm, to officially cut the ribbon and take the first step toward establishing a regional hub that nurtures, develops and supports tech-based entrepreneurs and businesses… more

Thursday, 3 April 2025

Free wi-fi on public transport thanks to new BTC venture

Bahamas – FREE wi-fi is to be provided on public transport thanks to a partnership between BTC and AD-FI… more

Digicel pauses multi-billion refinancing plans 

Caribbean – Jamaica-based regional telecoms giant Digicel has put the brakes on its planned early refinancing of some of its US$2.6 billion debt, bondholders have been told… more

Electronic ticketing system is a step in the right direction

Guyana – Dear Editor,  The announcement by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali that effective April 2025 electronic ticketing systems will be implemented on our highways is a step in the right direction… more

MOCA makes two more arrests in phishing scam targeting NCB accounts

Jamaica – The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) has arrested two more persons in connection with its continuing investigation of a $47.5 million phishing scam at National Commercial Bank… more

TelEm Group Taking Bold, Strategic Steps to Restore Financial Stability and Drive Growth.

Sint Maarten – The TelEm Group of Companies acknowledges recent public discourse surrounding its financial status and firmly refutes misleading information being circulated… more

CyberNation, Scotiabank offer cybersecurity training

Trinidad and Tobago – CYBERSECURITY company Cyber Nations will be providing training in cybersecurity to 100 participants in Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, with the assistance of a CA$900,000 investment from Scotiabank… more

Friday, 4 April 2025

 Layoffs, rehires ‘part of digital transformation’

Barbados – The Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) on Monday began a sweeping wave of job cuts and select rehires in what it has described as a restructuring to transition into a fully digital broadcaster over the next six to nine months… more

Cyberattack cost BVIEC hundreds of thousands, says GM

British Virgin Islands – The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) continues to grapple with the aftermath of a ransomware attack that occurred in August 2024, resulting in operational disruptions and significant financial costs… more

Gov’t commits to preparing students to dominate in field of technology

Jamaica – Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Dr Kasan Troupe, is emphasising the Government’s commitment to preparing students to dominate in the field of technology… more

Intcomex Jamaica to open distribution centre at Ferry Commercial Complex next year

Jamaica – IT and computer electronics purveyor Intcomex Limited has started the construction of a distribution centre at Ferry Pen in St Andrew… more

Saturday, 5 April 2025

From the Caribbean, for the region: Homegrown talent at heart of C&W Communications

Caribbean – After more than a century of connecting the people of the Caribbean, C&W Communications (C&W) is proud to have almost half its senior leadership team comprised of wholly homegrown talent… more

E-ticketing system to be integrated with ‘Padna’ App-GRA

Guyana – In light of the soon-to-be launched automated e-ticketing system on April 7, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has revealed that the system will be integrated with the ‘Padna’ app… more

Sunday, 6 April 2025

Police Officer Arraigned for Allegedly Cyberbullying Outgoing COMPOL

Belize – A police officer has been arraigned for allegedly using social media to publicly ridicule outgoing Commissioner of Police (COMPOL) Chester Williams. The officer, Barrington Gilbert Mai—also known as Barry Flowers—was charged with “using a computer system to publish obscene and vulgar data.” … more

AI Alone Will Not Save Guyana’s Students, engagement is the missing ingredient

Guyana – As someone deeply engaged in researching education solutions for mostly vulnerable children of Guyana, I find myself increasingly concerned about an assumption that is gaining too much ground; that technology alone will transform our education system… more

Young, Kamla accuse each other of AI campaign tricks

Trinidad and Tobago – PRIME Minister Stuart Young says the PNM has evidence of efforts by the Opposition UNC to attempt to influence people to vote for its candidates and its coalition partners in the April 28 general election… more

Images credit: kstudio (Freepik); Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Wikimedia Commons; Telem Group; Intcomex (Facebook); Wikipedia

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

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

In 2022, a concept paper was released on CaribCoin, a regional stablecoin backed by Caribbean assets that would act as a complementary currency to facilitate a quasi-monetary union for the Caribbean region. Nearly three years later, an initial proof-of-concept exercise has been completed. Now, businesses operating in Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago are being invited to participate in a wider field test that is slated to begin in June 2025.

Since our last discussion on a regional stablecoin, as part of our Fintech in the Caribbean series, we have circled back to get an update on CaribCoin, including important learnings that have been made and how it could be a digital catalyst for regional prosperity.

Introducing our guests

Rodney Taylor is the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU). Prior to this appointment, he held senior positions in the Government of Barbados, serving as the Chief Digital Technology Officer at Barbados’ Ministry of Industry, Innovation, Science and Technology (MIST) where he led the nation’s digital transformation, focusing on enhancing public sector service delivery through strategic innovation, science, and SMART technology applications. Additionally, he served as the Head of the Information Systems Unit at Barbados’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, where he oversaw operations at both local and overseas missions.

With over 30 years of professional experience in the Public Sector, Secretary-General Taylor currently supports collaboration amongst Caribbean Governments and other ICT Stakeholders in shaping regional ICT policies and in the implementation of national digital transformation strategies. He currently chairs the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Informal Expert Group for the World Telecommunication/ICT Policy Forum 2026 (IEG-WTPF).  He is also a member of the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience, which was established by the ITU in partnership with the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) in November 2024.

In 1991, Dr Jan Schröder transitioned from his work in elementary particle research at CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research in Geneva to the field of social innovation, focusing on network governance and social impact management.

He is a strong believer in collaborative networks as a means to achieve sustainable social and economic solutions. Jan is internationally recognised as the architect of the German initiative ‘Local Alliances for Family,’ which has brought together over 25,000 institutions in more than 700 local stakeholder networks, generating 1 billion media contacts to promote a family-friendly society.

Currently, Jan is exploring the potential of Distributed Ledger Technology (Blockchain) to scale social impact. He leads an experienced team to develop Carib$, a complementary currency for the Caribbean.

Additionally, he works as a consultant in the health and care sector, specializing in innovation and network management, with a particular focus on applying AI to societal inclusion.

Jan’s credo: *Cooperation is structure, content, and attitude in achieving impact together with partners and clients. Together we can do more with fun and the drive to make the world a better place for people and planet.*

Insights into our conversation

Although it would appear that CaribCoin is progressing slowly, it has to lay the proverbial tracks – such as building trust among the Caribbean business community for a novel venture, forging strategic partnerships and addressing legal and regulatory requirements – whilst the train is moving. Nevertheless, it was great to learn that progress has indeed been made since our initial conversation in 2022.

CaribCoin remains an exciting region development, that could transform the Caribbean region’s digital payments landscape by making it easier to do business in the region, especially in light of the recent geopolitical climate. Moreover, CaribCoin will be doing what other regional cross-border settlement systems are doing by reducing the dependency on international or external platforms resulting in improved resiliency, control and autonomy. Below are key questions that drove this interview.

1. Dr Schröder:  For those who missed our last conversation, what is Carib Coin and what problem is it trying to solve?
2. Dr S: In 2022, Carib Coin was still a concept, what has happened since then?
3. Secretary-General: Why is the CTU supportive of this initiative?
4. SG and Dr S: Do you see a role for Carib Coin in strengthening the resilience of the region in the face of current geopolitics and the ongoing US trade investigation?
5. Dr S: The creation and use of a stablecoin, such as Carib Coin is not new. Can you share some examples and some important learnings from those experiences that will be applied in this region?
6. SG and Dr S: What are the success factors and risks associated with the successful integration of Carib Coin?
7. Dr S: Having successfully completed the initial/proof-of-concept trial, what is next for Carib Coin?

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:

• Dr. Jan Schröder
• Rodney Taylor
• Caribbean Telecommunications Union
• CaribCoin
• CaribCoin paper, A Complementary Currency for the Caribbean: Carib$
• 2025 CaribCoin and CTU webinar, Complementary Currencies Webinar ‘Implementing A Digital Catalyst for Caribbean Prosperity’
• 2022 CaribCoin and CTU webinar, Demystifying Cryptocurrency and Digital Cash in the Caribbean
• BBC article, US to import millions of eggs from Turkey and South Korea to ease prices
• NPR article, This is why Canada has plenty of eggs — and the U.S. doesn’t
• Proshare article, Digital Yuan: The New Era of Cross-Border Payments in Global Trade
• CaribCoin Field test signup

Images credit:  J Schröder;  CTU;  DEZALB (Pixabay);  pch.vector (Freepik);  Freddy (Pixabay)

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

Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Monday, 24 March 2025 

Bahamas urged to harness tech sector for job creation and bridging skills gap  

Bahamas – The Bahamas must work to leverage the tech sector to create jobs, with one expert arguing that focusing on blue-collar tech roles through certification-based training could bridge the country’s skills gap, build technical capacity, and generate competitive job opportunities, particularly in remote roles… more  

Executive wants The Bahamas to focus more on tech sector jobs  

Bahamas – Donnisha Armbrister, a Bahamian with multimillion-dollar contracts with the United States (US) Department of Homeland Security, the US Department of Defense, and other federal agencies in the US, said in a press statement that The Bahamas must work harder to use the tech sector to create jobs, especially by focusing on blue collar tech roles through certification-based training… more  

Tech expert: Be wary of AI-use in election campaigning 

Caribbean – A cyber security expert has warned that artificial intelligence (AI) has been increasingly used in election campaigns worldwide, targeting voters often through personalised messaging, chatbots, and deepfake videos… more  

You should probably have an EPK  

Caribbean – An Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is considered a baseline requirement for a practicing professional musician… more  

Digital registry for old age pensioners, public assistance, other Human Services and Social Security beneficiaries  

Guyana – The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security on Monday announced that it was moving apace with efforts to create a registry of old age pensioners, public assistance recipients, domestic violence support, and anti-trafficking initiatives… more  

Access Financial Services maintains full control of its network whilst addressing data breach 

Jamaica – The Board of Directors of Access Financial Services Limited (AFS) is assuring its customers, shareholders and other stakeholders that the company maintains full control of its network and remains vigilant in monitoring the online space in the wake of a recent cybersecurity incident… more  

bmobile Connects Logos Hope to T&T 

Trinidad and Tobago – The Logos Hope, the world’s largest floating book fair, departed Trinidad and Tobago’s waters on January 26, leaving a significant and lasting impact on the local community… more  

Tuesday, 25 March 2025 

Cryptocurrencies in the Trump era 

Caribbean – Last week Minding your Business looked at the recent Budget and Financial Proposals, and while highlighting some of the positives for the social sector, also referred to the lack of initiatives for business facilitation… more 

Partnership with Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions to accelerate justice sector modernisation 

Saint Kitts and Nevis – Attorney General of St Kitts and Nevis, Garth Wilkin, has affirmed his commitment to modernising the justice sector through a strategic collaboration with the Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions (CAJS)… more  

Card, ATM, online banking disruptions expected when XCG goes into effect 

Sint Maarten – The early closure of banks as well as ATM, online banking and credit and debit card disruptions are expected as the country transitions from the Netherlands Antillean guilder NAf. to the new currency – the Caribbean guilder XCG on March 31… more  

Wednesday, 26 March 2025 

Vehicle registrations go online 

Barbados – Motorists no longer need to physically visit the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) payment centres to update and receive vehicle registration discs, the government has announced… more  

BVI post must embrace digital age, Premier says  

British Virgin Islands – Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley told postal leaders gathered for a regional workshop this week that the local post office must embrace digital transformation to stay relevant in a fast-changing world… more  

Digicel to power 40 per cent of cell sites with solar 

Jamaica – DIGICEL Jamaica has partnered with US-based renewable energy firm Caban Energy to launch an ambitious solar roll-out across its telecommunications infrastructure to power up to 40 per cent of its cell sites… more  

Digicel to shift to renewable energy for more than half of its cell sites  

Jamaica – Telecommunications company Digicel says it aims to reduce its 100 per cent dependence on the Jamaica Public Service Company’s grid for its 900 cell sites to 40 per cent, or only 360 sites, starting next month… more  

FLOW Jamaica races to complete 100 per cent fibre network  

Jamaica – FLOW Jamaica is racing to complete its transition to a 100 per cent fibre network by the end of 2025, while simultaneously rebuilding from Hurricane Beryl’s devastation and injecting more resilience in its network, as it positions its infrastructure for future technologies like 5G… more  

Flow to spend US$550 million to expand fibre optic network  

Jamaica – Telecoms provider, Flow says it plans to spend US550 million to expand its fibre optic network during this calendar year… more  

Modernizing Jamaica’s education system: The Digital Transformation initiative  

Jamaica – The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information of Jamaica, in collaboration with the United Nations System, launched the ‘Empowering Jamaica’s Future: SDG Joint Programme on Digital Transformation for Education’ project on March 25th, 2025, at Cumberland High School in Portmore, St. Catherine… more  

National E-Commerce strategy for T&T 2025-2030 unveiled 

Trinidad and Tobago – Trinidad and Tobago’s National E-Commerce Strategy 2025-2030 was officially launched yesterday, with Trade Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon calling it a catalyst for entrepreneurship and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises… more  

WiLoan’s plan for the unbanked and underbanked 

Trinidad and Tobago – WiLoan, a fully digital micro-loan service, wants to help the unbanked and underbanked by expanding its services. As the name suggests, WiLoan is a money lending service that requires no already-established bank account for all-digital transactions… more  

Thursday, 27 March 2025 

New workplace wellness website launches  

Barbados – In a bid to tackle rising work-related stress and blur the lines between professional and personal life, Ministry of Labour has unveiled a dedicated website for workplace wellness… more  

UNFPA workshop aims to boost data literacy among young people  

Barbados – In a bold initiative to combat misinformation and foster informed decision-making in the Eastern Caribbean, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) on Tuesday launched a workshop designed to equip young people with the critical skills needed to navigate and leverage data effectively… more  

Local man scammed in online purchase of iPhone 

Belize – A Belize City man alleges he fell victim to a scam while attempting to purchase an iPhone 13 Pro Max from a social media marketplace… more  

Cyberthreats Are Real, But BVI Is Ready.  

British Virgin Islands – Cybersecurity experts from the UK Government are working with the Virgin Islands’ Department of Information Technology (DoIT) to improve the Territory’s protection against cyber attacks… more  

DIGICEL, Caban Energy partner to spearhead carbon reduction in region  

Caribbean – Digicel has announced a partnership with Caban Energy to enhance its energy infrastructure through solar technology in Jamaica, with plans to expand throughout the Caribbean… more  

Unlocking the digital potential 

Caribbean – Many Caribbean businesses are intensely focused on their core product or service – the traditional way… more  

Busiest Flow store upgraded to sleek, modern customer-centric hub 

Jamaica – The busiest Flow store in the Caribbean has been upgraded! On Wednesday, March 19, customers, staff and other well-wishers gathered to officially reopen the Flow Carlton flagship store located at 47 Half-Way-Tree Road, St Andrew… more  

Jamaican IT, BPO entrepreneurs forge links in London under UK Trade Partnership Programme  

Jamaica – Five Jamaican entrepreneurs from the Information Technology (IT) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sectors recently wrapped up a high-impact business mission to London aimed at unlocking new trade opportunities with the United Kingdom… more  

Scotiabank partners with Cyber Nations to provide regional training in cybersecurity 

Jamaica – Following the success of cybersecurity training in Barbados and Canada, the CyberNauts programme is expanding to Jamaica and Trinidad with support from Scotiabank… more  

AgriConnect: Farm-fresh, online ready 

Trinidad and Tobago – As one of the most significant contributors to the Caribbean economy, the agriculture sector plays a major role in the lives and livelihoods of all citizens… more  

Friday, 28 March 2025 

Ginn ‘owner’ complaint to Data Protection regulator 

Bahamas – A Bahamian investor yesterday refuted complaints made to data protection regulators in The Bahamas and US that he has “misrepresented” himself as the owner and/or purchaser of the former Ginn project… more  

Gov’t now mum on ‘disruption’ of online entry portal  

British Virgin Islands – “Technical issues” disrupted the government’s new online portal for travellers entering the territory and forced a return to the traditional paper-based system last week, officials announced… more  

COMMENTARY: The Transformative Role of AI in Sales Management 

Caribbean – As we step into 2025, it has become impossible to ignore the sweeping changes Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought to how we do business, and the insurance industry is no exception… more  

Mastercard underscores confidence in contactless security  

Caribbean – AS digital payments continue to transition to becoming the backbone of modern commerce, global payments company Mastercard is reaffirming its confidence in the security of its contactless transactions… more  

Teleperformance lays off hundreds, closes Camp Street location  

Guyana – The France-headquartered call centre, Teleperformance (TP), has scaled back its operations in Guyana, reduced staff to almost 300, and closed its location at Camp and Robb streets, multiple sources said Friday night… more  

Cyberattacks climbing across Caribbean  

Jamaica – Ransomware gangs FOG and Akira continue to be the main culprits behind a number of recent cyberattacks plaguing businesses locally and across the Caribbean, a cyber-security expert has indicated… more  

TelEm Group network restoration update. 

Sint Maarten – TelEm Group technicians are actively working to restore the company’s mobile voice and data networks following a system crash early Thursday afternoon… more  

Saturday, 29 March 2025 

Cabinet spokesman announces AI scholarship plans for police force 

Antigua and Barbuda – In an initiative to modernize law enforcement, the government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced an annual scholarship program that will enable 50 police officers to pursue degrees in Artificial Intelligence and Criminology at The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (The UWI FIC)… more  

UNDP, EU Equip CRD with ICT Tools to Strengthen Justice System 

Belize – The Community Rehabilitation Department (CRD) has received a major technological boost with new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment valued at BZD $95,396. The initiative, part of the PACE Justice Project, is funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to strengthen case management in Adult Alternative Sentencing… more  

AI in the classrooms 

Jamaica – In a move to modernise education, Education Minister Dr Dana Morris Dixon announced the launch of a groundbreaking pilot programme that utilises artificial intelligence (AI) to assist teachers with grading… more  

Sunday, 30 March 2025 

AI ‘hallucinations’on trial  

Caribbean – As powerful as generative AI tools like ChatGPT are, they are not infallible. AI “hallucinations” can occur when a type of AI, known as a large language model, generates false information… more  

US immigration officials look to expand social media data collection  

Caribbean – US immigration officials are asking the public and federal agencies to comment on a proposal to collect social media handles from people applying for benefits such as green cards or citizenship, to comply with an executive order from President Donald Trump… more  

STEM Education is a Strategic Imperative for Local Business Innovation  

Guyana – As a doctoral candidate in technology education with a Marketing MBA lens and a lifelong commitment to learning, I’ve devoted my research and professional journey to exploring the transformative power of STEM education, particularly its impact on learners from vulnerable communities… more  

Cybersecurity data breach leaves Access client enraged 

Jamaica – A hotel executive and her mother were in stunned disbelief after they found out last Wednesday that sensitive personal information from a transaction with Access Financial Services (AFS) was openly accessible on the Internet… more  

Jamaicans going high-tech to protect homes 

Jamaica – THERE has been an increase in the number of Jamaican households using technological devices such as cameras, alarm systems and electronic gates to secure their property, a recently published 2023 study has revealed… more  

Government Implements D-OHPC to Enhance Digital Technology Tutorship at Schools 

Saint Lucia – The government is dedicated to promoting the integration of technology within Saint Lucia’s educational framework via the execution of the Digital OECS Harmonized Primary Curriculum (D-OHPC)… more  

Images credit: günter (Pixabay); Wikipedia; Wikimedia Commons; Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia; Wikipedia;

Monday, 17 March 2025

Hands-on with the Samsung S25 Ultra

Caribbean – It’s been a minute since Samsung offered a hands-on opportunity with one of their premium smartphones… more

Should we be concerned about in-car gaming with Android Auto?

Caribbean – There are some major exciting updates from Google’s latest Pixel Feature Drop, focusing on AI-power enhancements and new security measures. However, one feature is raising a security concern: in-car gaming via Android Auto… more

Cybercrime Act is being misused to punish citizens who question government’s actions or expose its corruption

Guyana – Dear Editor, In Guyana today, freedom of speech, a fundamental pillar of any democracy, is increasingly under threat under the Irfaan Ali/Bharrat Jagdeo regime. The regime’s use of the Cybercrime Act and other laws as tools to stifle dissent and target those who hold them accountable has escalated in recent months… more

Digicel cites leadership role in digital future through innovation and security

Jamaica – Digicel Business has partnered with Symptai Consulting to offer comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to businesses towards making them more resilient in the face of emerging threats… more

Jamaica’s digital payment revolution

Jamaica – In a significant transformation of Jamaica’s financial landscape, digital payment methods have steadily eclipsed traditional banking instruments over the past eight years, reshaping how businesses and consumers conduct transactions across the island nation… more

PM highlights importance of Artificial Intelligence

Jamaica – As the integration of technology and greater digitisation become central in the government’s long term development plan, Prime Minister, Dr. Andrew Holness says keen attention is being given to the use of artificial intelligence… more

Tuesday, 18 March 2025

Government to expand national security infrastructure with updated camera network and forensic lab, PM says

Antigua and Barbuda – The government is taking steps to enhance the nation’s security network through a comprehensive approach that includes expanding camera surveillance and building a new forensic laboratory, amid concerns over unsolved missing persons cases and murders… more

Scammers are getting smarter – so should we

Barbados – Barbadians are once again being urged to steer clear of two online scams designed to trick unsuspecting individuals out of their hard-earned money… more

Empowering the Next Generation: Girls4Tech 2025  

Belize – Belize Bank, in partnership with Mastercard, hosted the second annual Girls4Tech program in Belize, showcasing their dedication to empowering young girls through STEM education… more

Hackers and cyber gangs pose ‘national security threat’ to Cayman

Cayman Islands – The Cayman Islands faces a real and growing national security threat from cyber attacks, according to a four-star general who headed up the United States Cyber Command… more

Doctors to be trained to use AI, robotics for surgical procedures- Pres. Ali

Guyana – President Irfaan Ali has recently disclosed that the government is working to have local  doctors trained to use the artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics application for execution of surgical treatment… more

Unstable internet infrastructure and lack of digital health education for clinicians and patients risk widening healthcare disparities

Guyana – Dear Editor,  The government’s initiative to establish a National Telemedicine Hub, as reported in the Stabroek News article titled “Gov’t to establish telemedicine hub for 24/7 specialist support,” is a commendable step toward improving healthcare accessibility… more

Digital trust can be costly in cyber threat era, expert warns

Jamaica – Cybersecurity expert Marlon Cooper is urging Jamaicans to become more digitally aware following several significant data breaches in recent times… more

e-Learning Jamaica celebrates 20 years

Jamaica – e-Learning Jamaica Company Limited (e-LJAM) will be celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, under the theme ‘20 Years of Transformation and Digital Innovation: Powering EdTech in Jamaica’… more

Experts issue caution on Artificial Intelligence risks for upcoming election campaign

Jamaica – Ahead of the upcoming parliamentary general election, due by September, a call is being made for the Electoral Commission of Jamaica to establish guidelines and provide oversight for the use of artificial intelligence in political campaigns… more

Vendors Embrace Digital Payments, Boosting Sales Productivity In St. Lucia

Saint Lucia – As the 2025 cruise season brings thousands of visitors to Saint Lucia’s shores, the move toward digital payments is gaining traction among local vendors… more

Digicel call centre agents retrenched

Trinidad and Tobago – DIGICEL has overhauled its Customer and Corporate Call Centre operations in Trinidad and Tobago, leading to the retrenchment of several agents in the country… more

Wednesday, 19 March 2025

GBPA renews initiative to drive tech skills, careers

Bahamas – The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has unveiled a paid remote internship initiative to build skills and careers for Bahamians in industries such as cyber security, artificial intelligence (AI) and data science… more

High aims: New tech minister unveils ambitious five-year plan

Barbados – Newly appointed government senator and Cabinet member Jonathan Reid has declared that he has hit the ground running and is wasting no time in setting out an ambitious technology agenda for the country… more

Accountants’ professional judgement critical to success in age of AI

Caribbean – Importance of professional judgement and critical thinking underlined as organisations work to adopt artificial intelligence… more

CIBC Caribbean going big on tech

Caribbean – As CIBC Caribbean Bank Limited doubles down on growing its 10 core markets, it will be putting greater investments towards technology to differentiate itself across the region… more

Offshore Gambling Platform with Curaçao License Faces Growing Allegations and Scrutiny

Curaçao – The rise of offshore gambling websites like TopBet.eu has drawn increasing concerns, with questions surrounding their legality, links to criminal activities, and potential risks to consumers… more

App launched to track progress of education ministry contracts

Guyana – The Ministry of Education yesterday launched an application to track the number of projects  being carried out by the ministry and their deadlines… more

Electronic Health Record contract signed with UK firm

Guyana – The Government of Guyana yesterday signed a  contract for the development and implementation of a national Electronic Health Record (EHR) system with British company RioMed Limited… more

UK firm to establish electronic health records system in Guyana

Guyana – The Ministry of Health on Tuesday inked a US$3.3 million agreement with the United Kingdom-headquartered RioMed Limited to establish an electronic health records (EHR) system that would be accessible across all public healthcare providers to allow doctors to more efficiently treat patients… more

Cyber security agency warns about compromised RSA keys

Jamaica – Millions of RSA keys have been inadvertently exposed, significantly compromising the security of digital communications worldwide, Jamaica’s National Security Operations Centre has disclosed… more

Flow supports International Women’s Day events

Trinidad and Tobago – FLOW participated in a range of initiatives to mark International Women’s Day, honouring the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality both in the workplace and beyond… more

Thursday, 20 March 2025

URCA delays opening of Grand Bahama office, focuses on improving service quality in underserved family islands

Bahamas –  The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) will not open its first regional satellite office in Grand Bahama this year as previously planned, according to its Chief Operating Officer (COO), Dr. Walden Russell, who noted that the regulator remains focused on finding ways to improve service quality and accessibility in underserved Family Islands… more

Exploring the digital nomad lifestyle

Caribbean – I can’t tell you how excited I am to finally write about this, because this isn’t just theory for me. This is my life… more

Op-Ed: Deepseek catching global attention

Caribbean – Recently, the groundbreaking artificial intelligence model DeepSeek, developed by Chinese engineers, has attracted widespread attention in the tech world… more

Guyana developing AI-based app for malaria testing

Guyana – Guyana is developing an artificial intelligence (AI) application for malaria testing, aiming to eradicate the disease, according to Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony… more

US$3.3M health record system coming

Guyana – The Ministry of Health signed a contract with RioMed Limited, a UK-registered company, to develop and implement the new Electronic Health Record System (EHR)… more

Gov’t Building Out Digital Ecosystem to Facilitate Trade

Jamaica – Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill, says the Government is committed to building out the digital ecosystem to foster greater participation of local entities in international trade… more

Friday, 21 March 2025

Holness: Full roll-out of electronic land titling system in two years

Jamaica – Vendor selection and system implementation for the roll-out of the government’s Electronic Titling (E-Titling) programme is expected by 2027-2028, following legislative amendments to the Registration of Titles Act… more

NTRC’s iCode784 Introduces Robotics Category for 2025

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – The National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) has introduced a Robotics category for its 2025 iCode784 Competition… more

Saturday, 22 March 2025

Belize City Mayor highlights eMobility Pilot Project at Smart City Summit & Expo in Taiwan

Belize – Mayor of Belize City Bernard Wagner participated in his second panel discussion at the 2025 Smart City Summit & Expo in Taiwan, this time under the powerful theme “Innovating Green Mobility.” … more

Cayman International School lab attains international STEM certification

Cayman Islands – Cayman International School has become the first school laboratory outside the United States to earn a national certificate for STEM Excellence from the US National Institute of STEM Education… more

WiLoan launches fully digital micro-loan facility

Trinidad and Tobago – Imagine needing urgent funds for an unexpected expense. In the past, securing a loan meant long lines at the bank, piles of paperwork, and nerve-wracking approval processes… more

Wipay hopes to shake up small-loan market

Trinidad and Tobago – A financial solution for the man on the street and the unbanked. That is the premise on which WiLoan was built… more

Sunday, 23 March 2025

Cybersecurity strategies for business leaders

Caribbean – As we step into 2025, the cybersecurity landscape has fundamentally shifted. It’s no longer solely about reactive defence — it’s about proactively creating sustainable value and driving organisational performance… more

Is Bitcoin Really ‘Rat Poison Squared’?

Caribbean – Bitcoin is one of the most talked-about ideas in the world of money. Some people love it and call it the future of finance. Others say it’s a scam or even a Ponzi scheme. So, what’s the truth? … more

Entrepreneurship a smart choice in the AI era

Jamaica – What will be the new value of human work in a few years, and is entrepreneurship a safe bet? … more

New bill, no service…SOLVED!

Jamaica – Dear Claudienne, Thanks for assisting in the matter I am having with Flow regarding the absence of any cable service at my home for some five weeks now, despite the fact that my bill is fully paid up… more

PNP taps BPO as main job creator

Jamaica – The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) says it intends to position the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector as the main job creator if it is elected to office in the upcoming elections, even as the party has stated that the industry offers low-skill, low-wage employment… more

Images credit: Karolina Grabowska (Pixabay); Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia; Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia; Bahamas Weekly; NTRC Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Wikipedia

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

As technology and the internet continue to advance, we are continually having to adjust and evolve our mindset and thinking, as well as how we use them to capitalise on new and emerging features, benefits and opportunities.  However, this evolution is not occurring in all quarters. Across our societies, constituencies, such as small businesses and the youth, are unable to participate fully in the growing digital environment.

We also have situations where we have digital solutions, but it appears they have not gained the traction or the customer base envisaged. Often, this conflict appears to be due to a mismatch between the perceived problem and the solution created.

These initial thoughts provide some context for this month’s Community Chat episode.

Introducing our panellists

Tariq Mohammed holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from The University of the West Indies (UWI), where he specialised in communications systems and is currently pursuing an MPhil/PhD in the same field at UWI. Tariq is the lead consultant for projects in the Caribbean being implemented by the International Telecommunication Union.

In addition to consultancies under UN Projects, Tariq chairs and coordinates the Caribbean Youth Internet Governance Forum (CYIGF), serving as one of the region’s representatives at the United Nations Internet Governance Forum and Youth Track; and is the Chair of both the Caribbean ICT Youth Network, as well as IEEE Young Professionals, Trinidad and Tobago. Committed to regional development, Tariq is passionate about advancing digital agendas and supporting universal and meaningful connection for all through inclusive and sustainable practices.

Chad Fraser is the Founder of Sonover Inc, a Grenada-based software company that partners with organisations regionally and Internationally to facilitate their planning, design, development and implementation of digital transformation initiatives. He is an entrepreneur at heart, with over 15 years of experience in the Information Technology industry. His expertise spans ICT solutions development, research and advisory, business process reengineering, digital transformation consultation, IT Strategy, governance and quality assurance.

Building innovative technology solutions is Chad’s true passion. He is also passionate about building capacity in young people, as he believes that our most valuable asset is the creativity and skills of our youth.

The topics discussed

First, in the rapidly changing digital landscape, the question continually arises, “Are Caribbean businesses truly using technology?” Though some are, since around three-quarters of our private sector typically comprises small and micro businesses, the odds are most do not have the wherewithal to implement the measures to capitalise on the efficiencies that can be realised. So, we kicked off the discussion by focusing on How Caribbean businesses can leverage technology to compete in a global economy.

Then, we turned our attention to Caribbean youth, and with Tariq as one of our guests, we were able to get some insight into the youth’s perspectives on ICT. To some degree, Caribbean youth’s views and concerns were surprising, especially with respect to feeling digitally excluded and ill-equipped for our digital age. We thus discussed, Fostering youth development and inclusion in ICTs in the Caribbean.

Finally, we delved into the question, Is e-money a solution in search of a problem?, which was the title of an article written by Mark Lyndersay for TechNewsTT. Though his article was very specific to the situation in Trinidad and Tobago and that country’s digital landscape, the question was considered more broadly within a Caribbean context. Hence, considering all of the efforts and focus on e-money in the region and the limited traction that has been realised, is it indeed a solution in search of a problem?

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:

• Tariq Mohammed
• Chad Fraser
• Sonover
• TechNewsTT article, Is e-money a solution in search of a problem?

Images credit:  C Fraser;   T Mohammed;  Freepik

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

Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Monday, 24 February 2025

BTC connects with Coral Harbour community; Family fun day shows appreciation to customers

Bahamas – The Coral Harbour Community Park was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, February 22 and as residents of Southwest New Providence turned out in droves for BTC’s family fun day and fish fry… more

BTC launches the highly anticipated Samsung S25 Series

Bahamas – The wait is finally over for Samsung lovers looking for an upgrade! The Samsung S25 series is now available in all BTC retail stores in New Providence… more

CARICOM leaders agree to implement sweeping reforms to education, security and digital technology

Caribbean – CARICOM leaders have announced plans for sweeping reforms across multiple sectors, including education, regional integration and digital technology following their 48th Regular Meeting, which concluded during the wee hours of Friday, February 21… more

C&W Caribbean earnings up

Caribbean – Liberty Latin America (LLA), the communications group which owns and operates Cable & Wireless (C& W) businesses in Barbados and the Caribbean, is reporting increased revenue and income from the region during the recently-ended 2024 financial year… more

Integrating Caribbean realities into global AI safety policies

Caribbean – The Caribbean environment is shaped by post-colonial slavery and indentureship, giving rise to transplanted populations that experienced cultural fragmentation, particularly through loss of language… more

bMobile takes mobile speed top spot for Q3, Q4, 2024

Trinidad and Tobago – bmobile has been officially named Trinidad and Tobago’s fastest mobile network by Ookla® for Q3 and Q4 2024. This dual win solidifies bmobile’s position as the leader in mobile network performance within the country… more

Is e-money a solution in search of a problem?

Trinidad and Tobago – The conversation around e-money, digital cash transactions, digital payments and electronic value transfer has been a curious mix of blustery announcements and radio silence over the three months I’ve been asking questions in the space… more

Tribe introduces augmented reality

Trinidad and Tobago – Technology is now an integral part of almost every aspect of our lives, and it has also found its way into the local Carnival scene through an augmented reality (AR) app… more

Tuesday, 25 February 2025

New subsea cable to transform local technology infrastructure in 18 months

Antigua and Barbuda – Antigua and Barbuda is currently investing approximately US $15 million in a subsea cable infrastructure project that aims to revolutionize technology access and the integration of artificial intelligence across the nation… more

Bahamian provider unveils first AI-powered loan officer

Bahamas – A Bahamian financial services provider yesterday unveiled what it described as the world’s first artificial intelligence (AI) powered humanoid loan officer, Evelyn Phylistina (Evie)… more

70 Schools Gain Internet Through ConnectED Project

Belize – Seventy schools across the country are now connected to high-speed internet, thanks to the ConnectED project. This fantastic initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Education and Digi, ensuring that schools not only get fast internet but also receive top-notch technical support, maintenance, and continuous monitoring… more

The Public Utilities Commission limits Starlink’s operations in Belize

Belize – The United States-based internet company Starlink has received permission to operate in Belize from the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), albeit with limitations… more

Mastercard beefs up scam protection

Caribbean – Mastercard and Feedzai, an AI solution provider in financial crime prevention, yesterday announced that they are joining forces to make it easier for more banks to identify and stop scams, protecting consumers and businesses globally… more

The Cyber beast stalking Caricom’s economic future

Caribbean – “Whether tackling the climate crisis, addressing gun violence, or championing equitable global financial reforms, we must act with one voice and one purpose.” With those words, Prime Minister Mia Mottley signalled the strategic direction for her year as chairperson of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). However, while the region grapples with the relentless ravages of climate change, another economic monster is quietly raging, largely overlooked by heads of government: cybersecurity… more

Wednesday, 26 February 2025

AI, technology integration critical to greater profits

Bahamas – The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s (BCCEC) chief executive yesterday said the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies is key to greater business profits… more

URCA announces partnership with Caribe Sigma for nationwide ICT access and usage survey

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has announced its partnership with Caribe Sigma Research Company to conduct a comprehensive nationwide survey on the state of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) access and usage throughout The Bahamas… more

URCA conducts research on communications usage

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) yesterday said it has hired a consult to assess access to, and use of, information and communications technology (ICT) by Bahamians… more

Making AI work for business

Caribbean – CFOs have been urged to take care with how they attempt to apply artificial intelligence (AI) in their finance operations, as research reveals that most of last year’s projects to introduce the technology did not make it over the line… more

Be! AI For All (AiFA) showcases AI tools at first exposition in Guyana

Guyana – Be! AI For All (AiFA), a new artificial intelligence company, has opened its first exposition in Guyana to raise awareness about high-tech AI-driven solutions designed to assist local citizens in their everyday lives… more

JBDC urges MSMEs to embrace digital tools for tax filing and recordkeeping

Jamaica – With the 2025 tax season in full swing, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is encouraging micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt digital tools to improve recordkeeping and tax compliance… more

Outsource2Jamaica 2025 to chart future path for global services sector

Jamaica – The Global Services Association of Jamaica (GSAJ) says the fifth installation of the Outsource2Jamaica (O2J) 2025 conference in Montego will highlight the growth of the sector over the last decade as well as chart a path for the future… more

Thursday, 27 February 2025

MacKenzie: Cybersecurity insurance a good opportunity for local insurance firms

Bahamas – A Bahamas-based cloud services provider said yesterday that there is an opportunity for insurance companies to offer cybersecurity insurance in The Bahamas, considering how prevalent cybersecurity threats are becoming, and how crippling they are to organizations… more

PM pledges simpler tax filing via ‘OneTax’ portal

Bahamas – The Prime Minister yesterday pledged the Government’s new “OneTax” portal will make paying taxes easier and simpler as he hailed the revenue generated by enhanced compliance and enforcement efforts… more

Govt moves forward with e-conveyancing to fast-track land transactions

Barbados – The government has unveiled plans to revolutionise the property transfer system through e-conveyancing, a digital platform designed to eliminate inefficiencies, reduce costs, and speed up the process of securing land ownership records… more

Reid, new innovation minister, pledges digital transformation

Barbados – Jonathan Reid has been sworn in as minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, vowing to position the island as a global leader in digital transformation and cybersecurity while driving efficiency across government systems… more

Skype announces it will close in May

Caribbean – Skype, the video-calling service that had hundreds of millions of users, is closing in May, its owner Microsoft has said… more

Gov’t begins ID card rollout to ministry’s civil servants

Cayman Islands – The Cayman Islands National ID Programme will begin a pilot rollout on Friday among government workers after Cabinet approved the relevant regulations. The Ministry of Social Development and Innovation (MSDI) and the eGov department will issue the first National ID cards to internal team members and key ministry personnel involved in the project… more

OfReg finds Flow’s cell tower safety inadequate

Cayman Islands – A new report from the Utility Regulation and Competition Office (OfReg) has revealed some serious issues regarding the poor state of Flow’s infrastructure, the safety concerns surrounding it, as well as the management of and knowledge about its cell towers… more

Telecoms firm Flow told to repair towers after hazard warning

Cayman Islands – Towers owned by a major Cayman telecommunications firm need urgent work to make them safe, a report by the industry’s watchdog revealed on Wednesday… more

EduFocal’s cash position remains under pressure with weak 2024 performance

Jamaica – Digital learning and creative company Edufocal Limited is reporting a weak 2024 performance in which its cash position remains pressured but is being actively managed through an ongoing refinancing process, among other conservation efforts… more

Mastercard partners with NCB to support unbanked MSMEs

Jamaica – Mastercard is partnering with NCB Jamaica to support unbanked micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across the island… more

Sitepact JA is Empowering Small Businesses in Jamaica with Affordable Website Solutions

Jamaica – Small businesses in Jamaica often struggle with the high costs of website development, preventing them from establishing an online presence. Sitepact JA is tackling this challenge head-on, having already helped over 100 small businesses get online without upfront costs… more

Beware of Fraudulent VOICE Web and Social Media Pages

Saint Lucia – It has come to our attention once again, that fraudulent VOICE web and social media posts and pages are being used by individuals with malicious intent to tarnish the reputations of esteemed Saint Lucians and institutions by spreading false information… more

Bmobile invests in AI-powered math tutor

Trinidad and Tobago – Bmobile has invested more than $300,000 in the research, development and roll-out of an AI-driven math learning platform called B Smart at Math… more

Friday, 28 February 2025

Starlink Won’t Interfere in Local Internet Business, Says PM

Belize – Recently, ads have been promoting Starlink’s internet in Belize for as low as twenty-nine dollars a month. But what does this mean for local internet providers? The PM reassures that local businesses shouldn’t worry because Starlink will only be available in the most remote areas of Belize… more

Jamaica and the Caribbean need a holistic AI roadmap

Jamaica – As the AI revolution surges, Jamaica and the Caribbean find themselves at critical crossroads. While the world adapts to the transformative potential of AI, our region risks falling behind without a unified, forward-thinking strategy… more

Saturday, 1 March 2025

Scotiabank commits $6M in 2025 to assist STEMGuyana with Learning Pods programme

Guyana – STEMGuyana and Scotiabank Guyana on Friday announced that Scotiabank Guyana has committed G$6,624,000 for the 2025 academic year to assist its Learning Pods initiative. StemGuyana described its collaboration with the bank as “significant partnership …to sustain and enhance its Learning Pods Programme”… more

T&T’s ride-hailing companies see Carnival boom

Trinidad and Tobago – With the influx of visitors and tourists in T&T and people not wanting to drive to various fetes and other events for the Carnival, ride-hailing companies are seeing a major spike in their service… more

Sunday, 2 March 2025

Jamaicans urged to exercise personal digital safeguards

Jamaica – Jamaicans are being encouraged to take control of their personal data and defend their digital rights as the country navigates an increasingly data-driven landscape… more

Images credit: journalismthatmatters (flickr); Marketing Magazine; Wikimedia Commons; Bahamas Weekly; Apple iTunes; CompaniesLogo

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

There seem to be two kinds of entrepreneurs in the world. First, there are those who are born entrepreneurs: who knew from a very young age that they would start their own businesses and avidly searched (and continue to search) for opportunities to do so. A good and recent example of this Is Jarryon Paul, the Founder of Sunshine, who we spoke with in January 2025.

The second group are those who became entrepreneurs based on circumstances. Often, they have identified a need or pain point people are having or a gap in the market that they had the skills, drive, or otherwise, the wherewithal to try to address. Our guest for this episode of the Podcast falls into this category and has created a solution for a problem either we may not have known we had or did not know could be solved!

Founded in March 2024, Dataffluent offers market insights tailored for investors and traders to empower decision-makers in the Caribbean region, with scope to expand into other developing countries and regions where financial markets, the associated data and infrastructure are still fledging. The company’s platform leverages cutting-edge AI models with sophisticated machine learning algorithms to unravel the complexities of stock market data and delivers deep market insights, providing clients with a comprehensive understanding of emerging market dynamics.

Introducing our guest

Raquel Seville is the Founder of Dataffluent, a research and data science company that specialises in providing financial insights for publicly traded entities in emerging markets. She is a distinguished Jamaican tech entrepreneur with nearly two decades of experience in the tech industry.

Raquel has held leadership roles in multinational companies and served as CEO for the Caribbean region at BI Brainz, training over 10,000 professionals in business intelligence. She is a published author of SAP OpenUI5 for Mobile BI and Analytics.

Raquel is also an advocate for women in technology, addressing challenges related to career and personal life balance. Passionate about leveraging data to drive economic growth in underserved markets, she balances her professional endeavours with personal interests in travel, photography, and culinary exploration, all while maintaining a strong connection to her Jamaican heritage.

Insight into our conversation

Data-driven market intelligence is still underdeveloped in the Caribbean region. Hence, being able to provide clients with accurate, real-time data not only facilitates improved decision-making and opens up a broad range of opportunities for innovation, but it is also essential in driving the region’s economic growth and increasing its economic resilience and independence.

Raquel has been passionate about data for decades and seeing start to come into her own through Dataffluent. BI Branz, her previous venture, was a consulting business, which tends to start with the company principals leveraging their relationships with the hope of developing a track record and securing referrals. Taking on stock markets to provide more comprehensive insights and intelligence is an audacious undertaking, and a problem that we may not have realised could be solved. So, what we seem to have here is the optimal situation: solving a significant real-world problem by someone who has the expertise and the experience to provide a solution.

Below are some of the questions posed to Raquel during our conversation.

1. Tell us about Dataffluent. Why did you set it up and what services does it offer?
2. What is the problem Dataffluent is trying to solve? And who are your customers?
3. What is it like to pitch your business to others?
4. What is it like to be a woman in tech and focusing on finance?
5. What is it like being an entrepreneur in Jamaica? What do you think about the country’s start-up environment/ start-up culture?
6. How would you describe yourself as a manager, as the leader of your organisation? What do you consider your greatest strength?
7. What has been the biggest lesson you have had to learn in launching your startup and running your own business?
8. Where would you like to see Dataffluent in the next 2 to 3 years?
9. What is the best piece of advice you would give to a young tech start-up?

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.

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Select links

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

• Raquel Seville
• Dataffluent
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 268: Optimising performance and success through business intelligence, with Raquel Seville of BI Brainz
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 050: Mining the data within using business intelligence, with Raquel Seville of BI Brainz
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode,  ICTP 334: Stablecoins and financial freedom for all, with Jarryon Paul of Sunshine
• techstars article, Techstars Atlanta & New Orleans Powered by J.P. Morgan Announces 2024 Fall Classes
• Entrepreneurs Beyond Borders article, Bringing it Back to Beyond the Beach 2024-Raquel Seville
• Jamaica Observer article, Raquel Seville, DATA QUEEN

Images credit: Images credit:  R Seville; snowing (Freepik); nattanan23 (Pixabay); rawpixel.com (Freepik)

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

Podcast editing support: Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Monday, 3 February 2025

Cable warns 5G is ‘not viable’ in medium-term

Bahamas – Regulators will press ahead this year with plans to facilitate fifth generation (5G) mobile roll-out despite Cable Bahamas’ warning that the technology is “not commercially viable” in the medium-term… more

URCA to begin implementing 5G regulatory framework in The Bahamas in 2025

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has announced that it will begin implementing the 5G regulatory framework for The Bahamas in the first trimester of 2025… more

URCA to release premium spectrum for 5G this year

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) revealed in its recently released Statement of Results and Next Steps on the Roadmap to Enable 5G Deployment in The Bahamas, that the rollout of 5G in The Bahamas will begin before the end of the year, after extensive public consultation on how such a rollout would look… more

DeepSeek shows business opportunity

Barbados – The top level generative artificial intelligence (AI) model created by Chinese technology company DeepSeek is a potential game-changer for businesses and the wider society in Barbados… more

Behavioral Analytics: The Key to Combatting Scalable Payment Fraud

Caribbean – In the evolving landscape of digital transactions, most payment fraud prevention strategies are based on digital identity authentication… more

Caribbean infrastructure needs highlighted in new CAF report

Caribbean – The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) has conducted its first study into the infrastructure needs of the Caribbean… more

Samsung launches Galaxy S25 smartphones

Caribbean – If there was any theme underlying Samsung’s launch last week of its new S25 line of premium smartphones, it was artificial intelligence… more

Digital overhaul to transform human services as $58.3 billion budget approved

Guyana – In a major step towards modernising public services, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is set to embark on a digital overhaul, backed by a substantial $58.3 billion allocation approved by the Parliamentary Committee of Supply on Friday… more

C&W Business in ‘reset’ mode to better support clients

Jamaica – Following a year of disruptions from inclement weather, including Hurricane Beryl and Tropical Storm Rafael, regional telecommunications provider Cable & Wireless Caribbean (CWC) is recalibrating to better serve the Jamaican market, including business clients through its subsidiary C&W Business… more

Upskilling workforce: Catalyst for Jamaica’s productivity revolution

Jamaica – In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and shifting global economic dynamics, Jamaica’s private sector stands at a crossroads… more

Teen suicides linked to sextortion

Trinidad and Tobago – THE deaths by suicide of at least two teenagers in the country recently have been linked to a disturbing and growing trend known as “financial sextortion”, experts have said… more

Tuesday, 4 February 2025

How Radio Transitioned Over the Decades

Belize – Radio continues to be a key medium for news, public announcements, information, and entertainment in Belize… more

Online entry portal now required

British Virgin Islands – Most of the problems that delayed the full rollout of the territory’s online entry system have been ironed out, and all travellers to the Virgin Islands are now required to use the portal, according to acting Chief Immigration Officer Nadia Demming-Hodge… more

Trump’s digital dollar rejection

Caribbean – In a financial era defined by digital innovation, the Donald Trump administration’s outright rejection of a United States (US) Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) has sparked fierce debate… more

JBDC Expanding Digital Jamaica Training to Rural Entrepreneurs

Jamaica – The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is taking its Digital Jamaica Training initiative beyond urban centres into rural communities… more

Wednesday, 5 February 2025

AI expert: Artificial intelligence can boost Bahamas’ top vertical market

Bahamas – Artificial intelligence (AI) technology can be integrated into the tourism sector to boost the performance of its top vertical market, the highly successful weddings and romance market, according to AI expert Chloe Burke… more

FTX Bahamas ‘shoots for’ February 18 first payout

Bahamas – FTX’s Bahamian liquidators are “shooting for” February 18 as the date to start payouts to small creditors and victims owed less than $50,000 as a result of the crypto exchange’s fraud-driven implosion… more

FTX creditors to receive reimbursements by Feb. 18

Bahamas – The joint official liquidators (JOLs) of FTX Digital Markets (FTX DM) are set to release reimbursements to its first creditors by February 18, but only those whose claims are less than $50,000, according to numerous sources who say emails were sent to creditors announcing the start of the reimbursements… more

E-Governance participates in the ‘In-Person Workshop on Political Leadership and Advocacy in Public Policies for Women-Led SMEs’ in Costa Rica

Belize – On January 22 & 23rd, The E-Governance & Digitalization Department (EGDD) proudly participated in a significant workshop focused on enhancing women’s leadership in the region, represented by Dr. Adriani Coleman, Director of the EGDD… more

CANTO boss: OTTs still reaping benefits from region

Caribbean – The Over-the-Top (OTT) content providers such as Alphabet, Meta, Apple, Amazon, TikTok, and Netflix continue to reap the financial benefits of the telecommunications networks in the region… more

CANTO Connect 2025 Closes on a High Note: Collaboration, Innovation, and Progress

Caribbean – Telecommunications leaders, innovators, and policymakers from across the Caribbean convened in Curaçao for CANTO Connect 2025 and 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM)… more

Delreo Newman of ATN International Named New CANTO Chairman

Caribbean –  In a significant development for the telecommunications industry, Dr. Delreo Newman of ATN International has been elected Chairman of CANTO for a two-year term beginning 2025… more

One Communications emphasises collaboration for a ‘One Gigabit Society’

Caribbean – One Communications is committed to achieving the goals of the Gigabit Society in the Caribbean which includes the creation of a sustainable, digitally integrated, globally competitive region, while emphasising the need for all concerned to work together… more

Smart phones and Internet tun we into technology slaves!

Guyana – Dem boys remember when TV first come, and life change just so. Before that, people use to sit down and watch de street like it was dem personal drama series… more

Digital agriculture push

Jamaica – Jamaica is staking its claim in the future of another locally grown crop by embedding a QR code authentication system for bottled castor oil… more

Simplifying financial management in a digital age

Jamaica – In today’s fast-paced world, managing finances can often feel like a daunting task. With packed schedules, balancing career responsibilities, personal commitments and other priorities, finding time to navigate financial decisions can be challenging… more

Thursday, 6 February 2025

Nurses show backing for digitization

Bahamas – SUPPORT has been shown from nurses for efforts towards digitisation… more

Ransomware attack on university

Bahamas – THE University of The Bahamas (UB) has been the victim of a ransomware attack – and a union president has expressed concerns that the term may have to be extended as a result… more

C&W highlights role of emerging tech at CANTO AGM

Caribbean – Leading telecom operator C&W Communications recently took centre stage at CANTO’s 41^st Annual General Meeting (AGM) where senior executives shared valuable insights on the transformative role of emerging technologies in modern governance… more

Caribbean Technology Experts Reveal Top 5 AI Innovations and Strategies for 2025.

Caribbean – Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries worldwide, and hospitality in the Caribbean is no exception. At the most recent Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), hosted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), industry experts shared insights into how AI is set to revolutionize the guest experience, streamline operations, and preserve the region’s vibrant culture… more

With AI, do you know who you’re talking to?

Caribbean – While there are opportunities given the breakneck speed with which Artificial Intelligence (AI) is evolving, companies and businesses must safeguard themselves from potential threats that are emerging and should “get their house in order.” … more

IDB Invest supports cutting-edge insurance solutions with investment in Mundi Ventures Latam Fund

Caribbean – IDB Invest committed a $5 million equity investment to Mundi Ventures Latam Fund I, a $100 million early-growth vehicle managed by Mundi Ventures… more

KEITH ROYE II: Battle over global AI dominance heats up

Caribbean – The artificial intelligence (AI) battle is heating up as two of the most powerful AI models, OpenAI’s ChatGPT and DeepSeek AI, go head-to-head in the fight for global dominance… more

Where cybersecurity threats begin: Phishing

Caribbean – According to a 2021 CISCO report, most successful data breaches, more than 90 per cent, are the result of data phishing… more

IDB Lab Partners with 19Labs to Launch Drone-Delivered Medical Aid in Guyana

Guyana – IDB Lab, the innovation and venture arm of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is partnering with 19Labs to pilot the use of drone technology for delivering critical medical supplies to some of Guyana’s remote hinterland communities… more

Social media mek people dunce!

Guyana – Dem boys seh people nah read books no more. Dem does read, but is only Facebook posts, TikTok captions, and WhatsApp status. And it got to be short-short! If it pass two sentence, dem eyes start fuh glaze over like stale pine tart… more

Biomedical investigating ‘unauthorized access’ of sensitive client data

Jamaica – One of the largest private medical labs in Jamaica has confirmed that unknown actors gained “unauthorized access” to its network and systems through an external vendor last November… more

Balancing legislation, innovation to combat cyber attacks

Trinidad and Tobago – Technology is changing the world. From automation to artificial intelligence to digital currency such as Bitcoin, technology has enhanced processes in several industries… more

Fastest-growing, fastest-declining jobs in 2025 and beyond

Trinidad and Tobago – The global job market is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by advancements in technology, automation, and shifting economic priorities… more  

Friday, 7 February 2025

‘No law preventing GECOM from employing digital fingerprinting at elections’

Guyana – The introduction of fingerprint biometrics and any focus on such must be shelved until after the 2025 General and Regional Elections. This was disclosed by the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Justice Retired Claudette Singh via a statement dated February 4, 2025… more

Scotiabank: Fraud attempts affecting some customers not widespread

Jamaica – Customers affected by the Bank of Nova Scotia Google Play scam are being encouraged to make a formal report to the authorities… more

ZS Associates ramps up hiring in Jamaica Eyes digital healthcare expansion

Jamaica – With a growing footprint in health-care analytics and digital transformation, global consulting powerhouse ZS Associates is ramping up its presence in Jamaica, betting on the island’s talent pool to support its expanding portfolio of clients in the United States and beyond… more

WASA transitions to e-billing

Trinidad and Tobago – The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) has begun transitioning to e-billing as their sole platform for bill distribution… more

Saturday, 8 February 2025

European Union Partners with IDB to Scale Up the Digital Innovation in Belize 

Belize – The European Union (EU) is providing $2 million grant funding to scale up the “Digital Innovation to Boost Economic Development in Belize” program, financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The project is a key element in the Government of Belize’s comprehensive strategy to drive digital innovation and transformation… more

Historic milestone for Eastern Caribbean Telecom Operators as Mr Vaughn Brown is elected to the CANTO Board of Directors

Caribbean –  In a historic development for the telecommunications industry in the Eastern Caribbean, Mr Vaughn Brown, APUA Telecoms Business Unit Manager, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Caribbean Association of National Telecommunications Organizations (CANTO)… more

Founder of US$8.3M crypto start-up accused of misappropriating assets

Cayman Islands – A petition for court supervision of the liquidation of a Cayman-based online cryptocurrency casino start-up that raised US$8.3 million has been lodged after it was alleged a founder had “misappropriated” most of its assets… more

Introduction of Fingerprint biometrics must be shelved until after elections-GECOM Chair

Guyana – Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton on Friday criticized the decision by Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh on shelving the introduction of digital finger prints calling it “unacceptable and inadequate”… more

inDrive the most downloaded ride-hailing app in Jamaica in 2024

Jamaica – Despite moves by the Government of Jamaica, led by the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, to clamp down on inDrive’s local operation in 2024, the ride-hailing app was the most downloaded in its category in Jamaica for that year… more

Sunday, 9 February 2025

Digitising a medical practice

Caribbean – The stage right before a venture starts, when you only have the idea and the desire, is the most difficult because that is when you must make the right choices to ensure that you have what is needed to succeed and the implementation know how… more

AFC to prove biometrics can be implemented in three months during talks with diplomatic community – Hughes

Guyana – The Alliance For Change (AFC) will be in talks with members of the diplomatic community with the aim of proving that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) can implement biometrics within three months… more

FabLab.gy bringing your ideas to life

Guyana – In a world where technology is evolving, making the impossible possible has been truly leaving a tremendous impact in our world today. With new inventions introduced everyday it pushes people to not only educate themselves but develop new skills… more

Flow fiasco

Jamaica – Dear Claudienne, I am having a serious problem with Flow. In September 2023 I received an electronic bill dated 13/09/2023, due date 03/10/2023. The balance was $0.00 with a negative $12,993.85… more

Linkio, the digital alternative for business cards

Jamaica – Printing stacks of business cards can be costly and inefficient, yet staying professionally connected remains essential. Recognising this challenge, a young entrepreneur introduced the Linkio digital business card, an innovative, reusable solution designed to streamline networking while reducing printing expenses… more

Bmobile partners for satellite redundancy

Trinidad and Tobago – In April last year, a fibre optic break caused by a bush fire in Toco brought Tobago businesses to their knees… more

WASA embraces e-billing

Trinidad and Tobago – The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) ‘s announcement that it would transition to e-billing is a welcome signal of modernisation and digital transformation at the state agency… more

Images credit: carterse (flickr); The Bahamas Weekly; Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia; Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia; Marketing Magazine; Wikipedia; CompaniesLogo; Wikipedia; Flow Jamaica (Facebook)