Monday, 9 December 2024

PM Dickon Mitchell to deliver keynote address at Connected Caribbean Summit

Caribbean – Prime Minister and Chairman of Caricom, the Honourable Dickon Mitchell, is poised to deliver the keynote address at the 2024 Connected Caribbean Summit… more

Over 100 schools in Curaçao to receive new digital infrastructure

Curaçao – More than 100 schools in Curaçao will receive new digital infrastructure, including high-speed fiber optic connections and modern ICT equipment… more

JBDC paving way for MSMES’ digital transition through EU-funded initiative

Jamaica – In an era when digital transformation is no longer optional but essential, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is paving the way for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive in the digital economy… more

JM.live: Pioneering Digital Transformation for Jamaica’s Future

Jamaica – As the world continues its fast-paced digital evolution, one company is at the forefront of transforming Jamaica’s digital landscape… more

Young Innovators Shine Bright at CARIRI’s Power Up Competition Powered by bmobile

Trinidad and Tobago – What happens when young minds are given the tools to dream big? At CARIRI’s annual Power Up competition, powered by bmobile, innovation took center stage as two young visionaries presented groundbreaking ideas to transform education and agriculture… more

Tuesday, 10 December 2024

PM Dickon Mitchell to address Connected Caribbean Summit

Caribbean – The Prime Minister of Grenada Dickon Mitchell will on Tuesday, December 10, address the Connected Caribbean Summit (CCS) 2024 on the topic: “Action Time – Accelerating Caribbean Integration and Development”… more

Cross Roads gets free Wi-Fi as USF expands digital inclusivity programme

Jamaica – The commercial district of Cross Roads in St Andrew now has access to free Wi-Fi service as part of the Universal Service Fund’s (USF) Connect Ja Public Wi-Fi programme… more

New online platform seeks to level the playing field for car buyers in Jamaica

Jamaica – Entrepreneur Nike Henry has launched Virtual Showroom Automotive (VSA), an innovative online platform designed to make purchasing a vehicle more transparent, efficient, and customer-friendly… more

Government of SVG pushing for PayPal accessibility

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), is said to be making significant strides in its ongoing negotiations with PayPal to enable access for Vincentians to the popular digital payment platform… more

Wednesday, 11 December 2024

Satellite providers in mobile, national security restrictions

Bahamas – Regulators are proposing that satellite communications providers must store Bahamas-generated data in this nation to comply with national security laws given the industry’s “strong interest” in entering this market… more

Starlink, Viasat licensed as URCA eyes satellite growth

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has seen “substantial growth” in demand for satellite service licensing, having issued licenses to major operators such as Starlink and Viasat. It has now launched a consultation on the Satellite Regulatory Framework to guide the development of the sector… more

‘Digital or bust’: Biz leaders want tax credit

Barbados – The Barbados Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday urged the government to fast-track the implementation of its digital transformation tax credit, warning that rising costs and growing cybersecurity threats are pressuring businesses to act now… more

Mastercard goes after micro merchants

Caribbean – PUSHING to grow acceptance across more segments of the population locally, payments giant Mastercard, through a pilot programme now underway in the second capital, is looking to onboard hundreds of micro merchants, particularly those in the craft sector… more

The digital dilemma

Jamaica – IN today’s fast-paced global economy, digital transformation is no longer optional for businesses; it is an imperative… more

Tech Beach Retreat hosts AI film festival in Jamaica

Jamaica – Tech Beach Retreat hosted an AI film festival, featuring an AI robot avatar, during the recent staging of the regional technology event in Jamaica… more

The digital dilemma

Jamaica – IN today’s fast-paced global economy, digital transformation is no longer optional for businesses; it is an imperative… more

THE STATE OF CYBERSECURITY IN JAMAICA: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Jamaica – AS THE digital eco­nomy expands glob­ally, cyber­se­cur­ity has emerged as a cru­cial pil­lar for safe­guard­ing online trans­ac­tions, pro­tect­ing private inform­a­tion, and ensur­ing busi­ness con­tinu­ity… more

Thursday, 12 December 2024

Cloud security expert warns mobile phone users to stop SMS messaging

Bahamas – A cloud security expert said a recent Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warning for cellphone users to stop using SMS text messaging, and use encrypted messenger services like WhatsApp, is due to low security standards in the US and wider Americas… more

Beyond the 2019 Data Protection Act: Rebuilding Trust in Barbados’ Digital Future

Barbados – Writing this article has been uniquely challenging—not because of its technical complexity, but because it requires balancing fairness with my conflicted feelings about how cybersecurity and data privacy have been addressed in recent times… more

Uniting our youth against corruption: The digital battlefield

Jamaica – LAST MONDAY’S celebration of International Anti-Corruption Day, themed ‘Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity’, found us at a crossroads… more

Quite a MIC-IT milestone

Trinidad and Tobago – THE EDITOR: The attainment of the 50th anniversary of progress of the MIC Institute of Technology (MIC-IT) is quite a milestone. Examining continuous and relevant programmes that satisfy the needs of our country as done over the years, we must heartily commend the proactive nature of the institution… more

Friday, 13 December 2024

Gov’t to upgrade data centre amidst 2025 digital overhaul, MP Nicholas says

Antigua and Barbuda – The government is set to establish a new Tier 4 data centre on the island as part of its broader digital transformation agenda for 2025, Information Minister Melford Nicholas announced during his Budget presentation on Wednesday… more

Information Minister warns of further delays in implementing number portability

Antigua and Barbuda – The implementation of mobile number portability in Antigua and Barbuda will see further delays, with Information Minister Melford Nicholas expressing frustration that the initiative may not come on stream until the new year… more

Wayne Hull is new Flow Country Manager in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda – C&W Communications, the operators of Flow, Flow Business, C&W Business and BTC, said it is pleased to announce the appointment of Wayne Hull as Country Manager of its operations in Antigua and Barbuda… more

Cable: $85m network spend to counter satellite challenge

Bahamas – Cable Bahamas’ multi-million fibre-optic network investment will enable it to face down the competitive threat posed by Elon Musk’s Starlink and rival satellite operators, its top executive asserted yesterday… more

Incentive offered to electronic communications license holders

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) issued a statement yesterday to announce the release of the government’s new Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) Policy, which revealed that holders of a communication license will be eligible for reductions in their license fee as an incentive to invest at least $100,000 in implementing emerging technology anywhere in The Bahamas… more

New Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) policy published

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has announced the publication of the Government of The Bahamas’ new Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) Policy, which outlines strategic objectives to guide the nation’s electronic communications development… more

Telecoms company challenges ‘unfair and unlawful’ tax

Cayman Islands – Cayman’s telecoms regulator may have been erroneously charging taxes that have no basis in law, according to a lawsuit filed by internet provider C3… more

Some Flow customers in St. Andrew still affected after cables vandalized

Jamaica – Telecommunications provider, Flow, says it is still working to address the outage affecting internet, landline and cable customers in the Corporate Area, after some its wires were vandalised… more

Digital mapping of SVG expected to provide high quality data

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – The Caribbean Digital Transformation Project is teaming up with the non-profit organisation This is PLACE to carry out digital mapping of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG)… more

Saturday, 14 December 2024

A bright future for Jamaica in cross-border e-commerce

Jamaica – On November 21, Dr Hugh Blake, Trade Administrator and CEO of The Trade Board Limited attended the prestigious World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, China where he spoke at the Sustainable Development of Cross-Border E-Commerce Forum, a key platform that showcased global leaders discussing the future of international trade and e-commerce… more

Sunday, 15 December 2024

How to protect your communications through encryption

Caribbean – After a sprawling hacking campaign exposed the communications of an unknown number of Americans, United States cybersecurity officials are advising people to use encryption in their communications… more

Training talent is the challenge for Dominican Republic to use and develop AI

Dominican Republic – Vocational training is the most important challenge facing the Dominican Republic in using and developing Artificial Intelligence (AI). When evaluated along with other Latin American countries, the scores obtained in this area are below the regional average, according to the Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA)… more

Integrity Commission blocks threatening social media accounts

Jamaica – The Integrity Commission (IC) has moved to block some accounts across its social media platforms, ostensibly because of what it deems to be hateful and de-humanising commentary against the commission… more

Region must not be left behind in use of AI, says Bartlett

Jamaica – Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett says the Caribbean region must not be left behind in taking advantage of artificial intelligence (AI) to propel the tourism sector forward… more

Images credit: Steve Buissinne (Pixabay); JBDC; Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Wikipedia; C3 Pure Fibre (Facebook)

Monday, 25 November 2024

Digital learning platform aims to revolutionise tracking students’ performance

Antigua and Barbuda – The One Lern platform, developed by FortunaPIX, offers educators powerful tools to track student progress and identify areas needing attention in real-time… more

FTX to begin distributing payments to creditors and customers in early 2025

Bahamas – FTX, the bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange, has announced plans to begin distributing payments to creditors and customers in early 2025, following the approval of its Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization, which is expected to take effect by January… more

Expansion of CCTV network earmarked for 2025

Cayman Islands – Cayman’s 400-camera-strong CCTV network will be expanding next year to fill gaps in strategic locations as part of planned upgrades by the Department of Public Safety Communications… more

Guyanese soon to benefit from open government data

Guyana – Ordinary Guyanese, including people involved in various types of businesses, will soon be able to access high-quality government data that would assist them to make decisions or create new tools for planning and development following Monday’s parliamentary approval of the Open Data Bill… more

Why Biometrics cannot work in Guyana in 2025?

Guyana – Dear Editor, It baffles me that less than twelve (12) months before a General Elections, the PNC and their associated fringe parties have now found the voice to call for biometric technology… more

Jamaica Enters New Era of Digital Transformation with Roll Out of National ID Card

Jamaica – Phased roll out of the National Identification System (NIDS) is underway, marking a new era in Jamaica’s digital transformation… more

JAMPRO forum highlights digital transformation as key to unlocking Jamaica’s economic potential

Jamaica – Jamaica Promotions Corporation recently hosted its Local Direct Investment Forum, under the theme: ‘Jamaica Business Gateway: Unlocking Economic Potential Through Digital Transformation.’ … more

Symptai urges Jamaican businesses to act now on data privacy ahead of the December 1 deadline

Jamaica – With the December 1 registration deadline for Jamaica’s Data Protection Act (DPA) fast approaching, Symptai Consulting Limited emphasizes the urgent need for businesses to prioritize compliance… more

Flow launches Christmas promotion with $ in prizes

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Flow, a leading communications and entertainment provider has launched its 2024 Christmas promotion, dubbed “Christmasing with Flow”… more

Tuesday, 26 November 2024

BTC upgrades Ragged Island mobile network to 100% LTE

Bahamas – BTC has announced that it has successfully upgraded the mobile network on Ragged Island to 100% LTE services, including Voice over LTE (VoLTE) for improved call quality. This recent upgrade marks a complete transition from older 2G and 3G technologies, providing residents with faster data speeds and clearer voice calls… more

NDMA cybersecurity team placed 18th in recent Hackathon

Guyana – The National Data Management Authority (NDMA) yesterday said that its cybersecurity team comprising Justino DaSilva, Shameer Jalim, Maryam Bacchus, Latoya Etkins, and Irshad Nasir achieved a prestigious top 20 finish, placing 18th at the CyberQ: Security in the Quantum Era Hackathon… more

Jamaican tech firm Optimity Group to develop solutions for Dubai’s tourism industry

Jamaica – Local technology solutions provider Optimity Group has announced a franchise agreement partnership with a London-based company Nebula GCC to develop cutting-edge e-wallet solutions tailored to the Middle Eastern Market… more

Public warned to know cybercrimes law or face the penalties when breached

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Vincentians are being warned that they can find themselves on the wrong side of the Cybercrime law by committing certain acts which many deem ‘normal’ such as searching their partner’s phone, as well as sharing sexual images of children… more

Imbert: No critical NIB information compromised in cyber attack

Trinidad and Tobago – FINANCE Minister Colm Imbert says the National Insurance Board (NIB) did not suffer any loss of critical information as a result of a cyber attack last December… more

NCRHA promises AI-centred healthcare revolution

Trinidad and Tobago – HEALTHCARE in Trinidad and Tobago is said to be on the brink of transformation as generative artificial intelligence’s (AI) influence on practically every industry continues to grow… more

Ransomware attacks becoming more sophisticated, dangerous

Trinidad and Tobago – Every 14 seconds, a company faces a ransomware attack in North America. This according to chief executive officer of Canada-based cybersecurity solutions company VARS Corporation, Guillaume Caron… more

Wednesday, 27 November 2024

BRIBERY PROBE

Caribbean – Digicel Group Holdings is currently cooperating with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) on possible violations of the USA’s Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)… more

How search AI is changing marketing

Caribbean – IN the ever-evolving digital landscape, search AI is changing the way we interact with information online. From how we find answers to how businesses position themselves, search AI is redefining what it means to “Google” something in the 21st century. It’s no longer just about keywords and links; it’s about delivering relevance, personalisation, and efficiency… more

Regional leaders To Attend Caribbean Summit in Miami from December 9

Caribbean – Regional leaders are assembling at the Connected Caribbean Summit 2024 (CCS 2024) in Miami from December 9 to 12, to deliberate on practical strategies to accelerate Caribbean advance from the “status quo to true transformation”… more

Grenada parliament to introduce the use of AI in 2025

Grenada – Grenada’s Parliament will introduce artificial intelligence (AI) tools next year and legislators will be encouraged to make full use of the technology, Speaker Leo Cato said Tuesday… more

Going digital: Immigration, Customs to introduce electronic forms starting at International Airport

Guyana – Aiming to enhance government efficiency, two of Belize’s most important and public-facing departments are starting to go digital… more

The gov’t must revisit the Open Data Act and commit to strengthening it through collaboration with stakeholders

Guyana – Dear Editor, The Parliamentary Opposition is clear – we understand and support the imperative of open data. An Open Data Act should not only mandate the release of public data but also establish a robust framework for accountability, innovation, and citizen engagement… more

Companies urged to step up data privacy compliance as registration deadline approaches

Jamaica – With the December 1st registration deadline for data controllers to get complaint under the Jamaica Data Protection Act (DPA) fast approaching, businesses are being urged to step up their data privacy efforts… more

Female tech leaders for centre stage at Tech Beach Retreat

Jamaica – An exceptional lineup of female technology leaders are poised to take centre stage at Tech Beach Retreat (TBR), this December in Montego Bay, Jamaica… more

The evolution of cybersecurity in banking

Jamaica – CHANGES in the banking sector associated with new digital initiatives have ushered in an unprecedented number of cybersecurity risks… more

TTSEC warns public over Telegram scam

Trinidad and Tobago – The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission (TTSEC) is warning people about a new scam on the Telegram instant messaging service in which con artists are asking for an “investment” of money to get back much more in a short space of time… more

Thursday, 28 November 2024

Flow Antigua and Barbuda gets new Country Manager

Antigua and Barbuda – C&W Communications, the operators of Flow, Flow Business, C&W Business and BTC, is pleased to announce the appointment of Wayne Hull as Country Manager of its operations in Antigua and Barbuda, a release said… more

Commission’s $221.6m set to rank behind FTX victims

Bahamas – The Securities Commission’s top executive yesterday confirmed it is in talks for its $221.55m claim to rank behind FTX’s clients and other victims in the creditor payout queue… more

Legal threats to $30m in FTX property sales

Bahamas – Legal threats have slowed the sale of around $30m worth of Bahamian real estate that was acquired by the collapsed FTX crypto exchange’s property affiliate, it has been revealed… more

Almost 7,000 business names registered since Business Registry went fully online

Belize – Belize’s Online Business Registry System (OBRS) is celebrating its second anniversary today, marking two years of streamlined business services… more

Belize implements Electronic Immigration and customs forms at Philip Goldson International Airport

Belize – Cabinet’s discussions on November 26, 2024 included the implementation of electronic immigration and customs departure and arrival forms… more

Belize Introduces New Digital Embarkation/Disembarkation E-Form for Travelers

Belize – Тhе Веlіzе Тоurіѕm Воаrd іѕ dеlіghtеd tо ѕhаrе thаt thе Dераrtmеnt оf Воrdеr Маnаgеmеnt аnd Іmmіgrаtіоn Ѕеrvісеѕ аnd thе Сuѕtоmѕ аnd Ехсіѕе Dераrtmеnt, іn соllаbоrаtіоn wіth thе Міnіѕtrу оf Рublіс Utіlіtіеѕ, Еnеrgу, Lоgіѕtісѕ, аnd Е-Gоvеrnаnсе hаvе lаunсhеd а nеw Оnlіnе Іmmіgrаtіоn аnd Сuѕtоmѕ Dесlаrаtіоn Ѕуѕtеm… more

Invest in digital literacy for students with disabilities

Jamaica – THE EDITOR, Madam:  The response from the government was swift and, for the first time in a long while, hopeful. The Ministry of Education stepped in to cover her tuition and promised support for her transition to high school… more

Experts discuss AI versus humans in Trinidad and Tobago healthcare

Trinidad and Tobago – “Are humans more empathetic than robots?” Dr Ronnie Sebro posed this question at the Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare conference at Hilton Trinidad, Port of Spain on November 26, causing an equally comical and uncomfortable stir among the health experts in the room unprepared for the answer… more

Finance experts: More education needed on e-money

Trinidad and Tobago – E-money, going cashless and digital currency have all become buzzwords over the past few years, with both the public and private sectors making significant strides to enable Trinidad and Tobago to benefit from the evolving e-money ecosystem… more

How businesses are using data to evolve

Trinidad and Tobago – DECISION-MAKING is key for any business: how the leadership of the business governs its management, how managers strategise and how the team performs overall depends on the decisions made… more

RBL customers face new phishing scam

Trinidad and Tobago – Scammers are now replicating Republic Bank Ltd’s (RBL) RepublicOnline platform to phish people’s personal information and take control of their accounts… more

Friday, 29 November 2024

G.O.B. Considers Online Classes for Students in Flooded Areas

Belize – The Ministry of Education is still figuring out how to best support students in the areas hardest hit by the floods… more

Kemal Brown | 7 Strategies to Increase Sales Via Digital Channels This Holiday Season

Caribbean – The holiday season is a critical period for businesses to connect with their audiences and deliver memorable experiences… more

Eyes on the Future – VM taps digital, innovation for growth in new era

Jamaica – The VM Group has come a long way since its founding in 1878, even as it maintains its purpose of facilitating savings and investments to transform lives… more

Tech start-ups urged to seek international funding

Jamaica – TECHNOLOGY start-ups are being encouraged to focus on raising capital from international investors instead of relying solely on local sources… more

Saturday, 30 November 2024

FIFA Foundation partners with Ministry of Education to reach 10,000 students in 3 years with Digital Education Programme

Belize – Тhе Fооtbаll Fеdеrаtіоn оf Веlіzе (FFВ) сеlеbrаtеd а ѕіgnіfісаnt mіlеѕtоnе wіth thе оffісіаl hаndіng оvеr оf еquірmеnt fоr thе FІFА Fоundаtіоn Dіgіtаl Еduсаtіоn Рrоgrаmmе, whісh аіmѕ tо rеасh 10,000 ѕtudеntѕ оvеr thе nехt thrее уеаrѕ… more

Ministry of Education’s Doodle Learn to engage over 6,000 students in Belize

Belize – Оn Nоvеmbеr 29, 2024, thе Міnіѕtrу оf Еduсаtіоn, Сulturе, Ѕсіеnсе аnd Тесhnоlоgу, іn раrtnеrѕhір wіth thе Іntеrnаtіоnаl Dеvеlорmеnt Ваnk (ІDВ) lаunсhеd аn іnіtіаtіvе tо ѕuрроrt ѕсhооlѕ bу рrоvіdіng brаnd-nеw Сhrоmеbооkѕ fоr ѕtudеntѕ tо раrtісіраtе іn thе Dооdlе Lеаrnіng Рrоgrаmmе, ѕtаrtіng wіth Аll Ѕаіntѕ’ Аnglісаn Ѕсhооl… more

Why all the digital talk?

Trinidad and Tobago – THE EDITOR: On November 27 I went to the Arima office to have my driver’s licence renewed… more

Sunday, 1 December 2024

Digital Immigration Promises Faster Travel Through Belize

Belize – Starting today, travellers to Belize will experience a faster, paperless journey through the country’s borders with the launch of a new online immigration and customs declaration system. This digital upgrade aims to streamline the travel process, cutting down on wait times and eliminating the need for paper forms, making it easier than ever to visit Belize… more

SIM saga

Jamaica – Dear Claudienne,  Trust all is well with you. I am seeking your assistance to address an issue I am having in trying to get my replacement Flow SIM card chip… more

Fraud squad investigating Police Credit Union scams

Trinidad and Tobago – Fraud Squad detectives are investigating reports of scamming activities involving people posing as representatives of the Police Service Credit Union… more

Images credit: Karolina Grabowska (Pixabay); Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Wikimedia Commons; VM Group (Facebook); Wikipedia

Monday, 30 September 2024

Barbados Revenue Authority files listed for sale by threat actors

Barbados – Records from the Barbados Revenue Authority such as property tax records and vehicle owner’s registration records are being offered for sale, but is the government even aware that personal information has been acquired and is at risk of misuse? … more

Facial Recognition Software Potentially Coming to Belize

Belize – The Belize Police Department is working towards acquiring facial recognition software to increase public safety… more

Artificial intelligence may help crack down on money crime

British Virgin Islands – The BVI Financial Investigation Agency may soon use artificial intelligence to crack down on child sexual exploitation, human smuggling and other illicit activity as it intensifies its efforts following recent criticism of the territory’s ability to fight money crime, according to FIA Director Errol George… more

Online payment option for property tax by October 31

Trinidad and Tobago – FINANCE Minister Colm Imbert has said there will be an online payment option for property tax by or before October 31… more

Tuesday, 1 October 2024

 230 GB data breach tints reputation of Revenue Authority: Vehicle Registration offline as offenders tracked

Barbados – The Barbados Revenue Authority is aware that there is some vehicle registration application information circulating on the internet and social media and is actively investigating the incident… more

BRA, police investigating data breach

Barbados – The Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) and police are investigating a reported breach of its vehicle registration data… more

Flow BVI welcomes Maria De Grads as its new General Manager

British Virgin Islands – C&W Communications, operators of the Flow, Flow Business, C&W Business, and BTC brands in the Caribbean, is pleased to announce the appointment of Maria De Grads as the new General Manager of Flow British Virgin Islands effective October 1, the first female leader in the company’s 58-year history of operations in the Territory… more

New Regulatory Unit For Harmonising Digital Transformation To Feature At CTU ICT Week

Caribbean – The establishment of a new regulatory unit to harmonise digital transformation efforts in the Caribbean is on the agenda at CTU ICT Week 2024, being held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort from September 30 to October 04, 2024… more

Youth Urged To Help Older Person As Caribbean Pushes Digital Transformation

Caribbean –  Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 01, 2024 (SKNIS): Strategies to push forward Digital Transformation in the Caribbean are being discussed by delegates participating in the Caribbean Telecommunication Union Information and Communication Technology (CTU ICT) Week taking place in St. Kitts and Nevis from September 30 to October 04, 2024… more

Jamaica’s digital growth: Investment opportunities in the nation’s tech transformation

Jamaica – AMID A global race towards digital economies, the Government of Jamaica is seizing the moment with a robust digital-transformation initiative to unlock new investment opportunities in fintech innovation and technology infrastructure… more

Wednesday, 2 October 2024

Customer event gives BTC chance to hear their views

Bahamas – A DAY of customer appreciation and feedback was held yesterday by Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) – the second year running for the luncheon that seeks to receive feedback from customers on how services can be improved… more

‘Embrace’ AI opportunities

Barbados – Two academics are urging Barbadians to embrace the creative opportunities being provided by Artificial Intelligence… more

Hackers claim access to BRA’s admin portal

Barbados – The Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) is working with police to investigate a breach of its vehicle registration system, amid growing concerns over the security and privacy of stakeholders’ data… more

Cuban province to host 2nd Fair on Digital Transformation

Cuba – From Nov. 12 to 14, the eastern province of Santiago de Cuba will host the 2nd edition of the Digital Transformation Fair (Fetdi by its Spanish acronym), with the aim of training digital skills through the innovative application of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI)… more

Caribbean Digital Transformation Project provides training to boost national cyber security

Dominica – The Caribbean Digital Transformation Project’s Project Implementation Unit, operating under the Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities, and Digital Economy, organized the CSIRTAMERICA Week in Dominica from September 24 to 27, 2024… more

AI moves in on job market disruptions

Jamaica – Already proven to make difficult tasks much easier, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in a number of fields has, in the last few years, significantly revolutionised labour markets and how people work, a phenomenon which experts believe is catching on with great speed locally… more

Cyberattacks continue to trend down as vulnerabilities remedied

Jamaica – A significant drop in vulnerabilities is being attributed to the more than 70 per cent reduction in attempted cyberattacks on local networks seen since the start of this year… more

Information minister urges JIS to combat misinformation

Jamaica – Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Information, Skills and Digital Transformation, Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon, has underscored the role of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) in combatting misinformation… more

Thursday, 3 October 2024

‘88,000 homes’ connected to fibre internet, as Cable Bahamas reveals results

Bahamas – CABLE Bahamas CEO and president Franklyn Butler says he is “extremely pleased” as more than 88,000 homes are now connected to fibre internet… more

$1bn FTX Bahamas claims hit if Chapter 11 plan fails

Bahamas – FTX’s Bahamas liquidators have received more than $1bn in claims from over 44,000 creditors as they urged a US judge to accept the crypto exchange’s Chapter 11 reorganisation plan… more

Aliv ‘where we need to be’ through $90m raise

Bahamas – Aliv’s latest $90m capital raise “takes us where we need to be” by “cleaning up” multiple inter-company loans and providing funds for capital investment, Cable Bahamas’ top executive disclosed yesterday… more

BTC pledges ‘new technology’ for long-suffering Eleutherans

Bahamas – The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is planning to “soon trial new technology” on Eleuthera that will improve the island’s broadband Internet connectivity amid multiple outage complaints… more

BTC postpaid customers get $1k in cash when adding a fiber plan

Bahamas – BTC has announced the introduction of its “Premier Club” loyalty program, offering exclusive rewards and benefits, which will be available to postpaid customers in its first phase… more

GEO-blocking ‘hampers digital creators’

Barbados – Barbadian content creators are being shut out of monetising their work on major platforms like YouTube and Spotify due to geo-blocking, hampering efforts to boost the island’s orange economy, industry leaders warned… more

Harper urges urgent action as BRA breach exposes personal info

Barbados – Charging that the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) might have suffered the most extensive data leak to date, cybersecurity expert Niel Harper warned that a massive amount of sensitive information has been exposed and blasted the government’s response as inadequate… more

60% of Caribbean organisations delayed in digital transformation

Caribbean –  The Digicel Business Digital Transformation Report also contains key insights for specific industries and groups, including hospitality, financial services, government/public sector and small and medium-sized enterprises… more

Cybersecurity Forum Builds A Safer Digital Future For Leaders And Students

Caribbean –  The importance of a strong and resilient cybersecurity system was emphasised at a Cybersecurity Awareness Forum held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort on October 03, 2024. The event brought together public and private sector officials from St. Kitts and Nevis, regional representatives and local secondary school students… more

E-Litigation portal for Guyana’s High Court and Court of Appeal set to roll out

Guyana – The Supreme Court of Judicature in Guyana on Tuesday announced that it is nearing the completion of an e-litigation web portal for the Court of Appeal and the High Court which will mark a major transformation in the country’s judicial system… more

Design Privacy trains HR professionals in data privacy

Jamaica – As data privacy regulations become entrenched in company policy, the role of human resource (HR) professionals will become more critical in encouraging compliance and treating with breaches… more

Digicel Foundation to put more tech labs in panyards

Trinidad and Tobago – The Digicel Foundation is again partnering with the pan fraternity to install technology labs at panyards throughout Trinidad and Tobago… more

Digicel gives up e-money issuer licence

Trinidad and Tobago – MYCASH (Trinidad & Tobago) Ltd, a subsidiary of Digicel, confirmed yesterday that it had “voluntarily” surrendered its provisional registration as an e-money issuer in this country… more

Tourism minister: E-passports, online departure/arrival forms will improve sector

Trinidad and Tobago – TOURISM Minister Randall Mitchell says the introduction of e-passports and online arrival/departure forms to TT will improve the industry… more

Friday, 4 October 2024

Caddle: Gov’t doing what’s required, probe continues into BRA data breach

Barbados – Amid calls for authorities to come clean on the full extent of this week’s Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) data breach, Minister of Industry, Innovation, Science and Technology Marsha Caddle says the teams investigating the incident must be given time to do their work… more

C&W Communications appoints Santiago Londono as chief commercial officer, B2B

Caribbean – C&W Communications has appointed Santiago Londono as chief commercial officer, B2B, effective October 1, 2024… more

Digicel Business 2024 report: 60% delayed in digital transformation

Caribbean – DIGICEL Business has launched its third Digital Transformation Report, in collaboration with Symptai Consulting Ltd, and delved into the progress and challenges faced by businesses across the region… more

Children being exposed to inappropriate content on social media

Jamaica – There is a call for attention to be given to the issue of children being exposed to inappropriate content on social media… more

Mastercard phasing in stronger fraud protection

Jamaica – MASTERCARD is currently in the process of phasing out the requirement for shoppers in the region to enter their 16-digit card number when checking out online, replacing it instead with randomly generated numbers on a token in an effort to tamp down on the rising incidents of online fraud. The process called ‘tokenisation’ is often backed by biometric authentication… more

Saturday, 5 October 2024

111 ICT hubs operational in hinterland – PM

Guyana – Prime Minister Mark Phillips has underscored the  advancements made in the ICT Access and E-Services for Hinterland, Poor, and Remote Communities Project… more

Supreme Court in soft launch of E-Litigation platform

Guyana – The Supreme Court of Judicature held a soft launch of its e-litigation system for the High Courts of Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice yesterday… more

Expanding Internet Access to the Poor, Elderly, Physically Challenged in Soufriere

Saint Lucia – The Universal Service Fund Office of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission – St. Lucia, has announced a new project aimed at expanding efficient access to the internet for the poor, elderly, and physically challenged in Soufriere… more

Online blows for Hyatt over ‘cashless’ advertisement

Trinidad and Tobago – Government-owned Hyatt Regency hotel had to delete a social media post and apologise after it announced that effective November 1, local currency was not going to be accepted as payment for services… more

Sunday, 6 October 2024

No jobs lost

Jamaica – Ibex Global Jamaica Limited has hit back at concerns that it is scaling back its operation in Jamaica based on Ibex Global Limited’s financial reports… more

Images credit:  Andrys Stienstra (Pixabay); Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Aliv; Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia

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

Data centres, often referred to as the “digital backbone” of our modern world, play an indispensable role in our daily lives. These high-tech facilities house servers, storage systems, and networking equipment that process, store, and transmit vast amounts of data. From online banking to streaming services, social media to e-commerce, data centres power the digital infrastructure that has become an integral part of our society.

One of the most critical functions of data centres is the storage and retrieval of data. They serve as digital repositories, preserving valuable information for individuals, businesses, and governments. Further, they enable cloud computing, a technology that allows users to access applications and data over the internet, eliminating the need for local hardware and software. Additionally, data centres facilitate global communication and connectivity by serving as hubs for internet traffic and routing data between different networks and countries.

However, noting the importance of data centres in digital ecosystems, it seems to be an overlooked area in the Caribbean region. In this podcast episode, we explore the state of Caribbean data centres and what it might take for them to truly become the digital backbone of the region.

Introducing our guest

Giovanni King is the Chief Executive Officer of Blue NAP Americas (BNA), the most advanced multi-tenant Tier-IV certified data centre in the Pan-Caribbean region, and the Chairman of the Caribbean Datacenter Association (CDA). This recently established association seeks to foster the growth, collaboration, and excellence of data centre operators and technology infrastructure providers in the Caribbean region.

Giovanni has over two decades of experience in the telecommunications industry, the majority of which is as an executive with telecommunications regulatory authorities in the Dutch Caribbean. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Fonty’s University in the Netherlands and a master’s degree in Telecommunications Regulation and Policy from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.

Insights into our conversation

Giovanni’s passion for data centres is infectious, and very early in our conversation, you will realise the considerable potential that exists for data centres in the region. All too often, we purchase services outside the region, although the facilities exist here. Unfortunately, we may not always be aware of what we have and the quality that is available.

For example, Blue NAP Americas, which is located in Curaçao, is a Tier-IV certified data centre that is certified to have 99.995% uptime, or a cumulative downtime of no more than 20 minutes in a single year, or no more than 1.67 minutes per month! However, we are small countries with small populations; so we need to be creative and be prepared to be collaborative will our fellow data centres and technology partners to be competitive and truly add value to our individual countries and the Caribbean region as a whole.

Below are key questions posed to Giovanni that drove our conversation.

1. To start us off, what kind of services or facilities are typically offered at a data centre?
2. What is the current demand for data centres in the Caribbean region?
3. Are there specific sectors or industries driving this demand?
4. Tell us some more about the Caribbean Datacenter Association. Why was it set up and what does it hope to achieve?
5. Are there any efforts to promote regional cooperation or collaboration among Caribbean countries in the development of data centres?
6. What are the typical infrastructure requirements for data centres in the Caribbean?
7. What are the primary challenges and opportunities facing the development of data centres in the Caribbean?
8. How is connectivity ensured for data centres in the Caribbean?
9. Are there any emerging technologies or trends that could significantly impact the future of data centers in the Caribbean, such as AI, IoT, or blockchain?

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:

• Giovanni King
• Caribbean Datacenter Association
• Blue NAP Americas
• ICT Pulse Podcast episode, ICTP 089: Exploring the Curaçao telecoms and ICT space, with Giovanni King

Images credit:  Blue NAP Americas; Gerd Altmann (Pixabay); panumas nikhomkhai (Pexels); Christina Morillo (Pexels)

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

Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Monday, 9 September 2024

‘Remarkably favourable’ multi billion gain for FTX creditors

Bahamas – FTX’s Bahamian liquidators are asserting that the failed crypto exchange’s creditors and customers will enjoy “a remarkably favourable outcome” via a multi-billion interest gain while recovering all their principal… more

Why cash is king in Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago – Last month, the TT International Finance Centre (TTIFC) issued a summary of the results of its survey of financial inclusion in this country… more

Tuesday, 10 September 2024

CaribNOG brings cutting-edge tech meet to Curacao this month

Curaçao – From September 19 to 20, Curacao will be at the center of regional technology innovation as it hosts the twenty-eighth assembly of the Caribbean Network Operators Group (CaribNOG). This unique professional association is a spirited volunteer-driven community committed to strengthening the Caribbean’s Internet infrastructure… more

Cyberspace is becoming a dark place

Guyana – The notion that cyberspace should exist in some fictional realm, free from the meddling hands of governments and regulatory authorities, is as fanciful as believing that international waters are a pirate’s playground immune to the reach of the law.  Cyberspace is a real place that is becoming, increasingly a dark place… more

CONATEL closes 5 illegal radio stations and demands corrections from 23 legal stations

Haiti – The General Directorate of the Executive Body of the National Telecommunications Council (CONATEL) informs that, following a new complaint from the National Office of Civil Aviation (OFNAC) concerning radio interference on aeronautical links, in the Departments of the Center and the North (Mirebalais, Hinche, Cap-Haïtien), a technical team was dispatched during the period from August 25 to September 1st, 2024 to resolve this problem… more

Flow Statement on Island-wide Outage

Saint Lucia – At around 7:00 PM on September 7, 2024, Flow customers encountered a temporary outage that impacted all services, including Entertainment, Fixed Broadband, Fixed Voice, IP & DATA, IP Transit, and Mobile… more

Wednesday, 11 September 2024

BTC and BCPMU sign historic 4-year industrial agreement

Bahamas – Following months of negotiations and discussions, BTC and its union partner, The Bahamas Communications and Public Managers Union (BCPMU), made it official, inking a new industrial agreement between both parties… more

BTC middle managers gain 10% base pay rise

Bahamas – Middle managers at the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday signed an “historic” industrial deal that includes a 10 percent base pay increase over its four-year term… more

BTC signs four-year industrial agreement with BCPMU

Bahamas – THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and the Bahamas Communications and Public Managers Union (BCPMU) signed a four-year industrial agreement yesterday… more

‘Cart before the horse’ over $377m FTX Bahamas fight

Bahamas – FTX’s Bahamas liquidators yesterday accused a failed crypto bank’s administrator of “putting the cart before the horse” in an escalating legal battle over a $377.419m claim against the collapsed exchange… more

ESPN Extra announced C&W Communications in time for English Premier League (EPL)

Caribbean – C&W Communications, which operates Flow, Flow Business, C&W Business, and BTC is promising football enthusiasts an expanded viewing experience as the English Premier League (EPL) with the introduction of a new channel, ESPN Extra… more

itel call centre to close its doors in Guyana

Guyana – Just some three-plus years after establishing its large customer call centre in Guyana, Jamaica-based itel has announced plans to close its operations in the country, leaving hundreds facing unemployment in what will be a blow to the government which has been seeking to expand the sector… more

UK to expand digital authorization for travellers from Guyana, other countries

 Guyana – The UK government is taking major steps towards delivering its  aim to digitise the UK border and immigration system and yesterday set out new implementation dates for the electronic travel authorisation (ETA) scheme… more

MSMEs urged to embrace e-commerce

Jamaica – DIGITAL experts are encouraging local businesses to embrace e-commerce to tap into export opportunities, cautioning that other countries are already ahead in this space… more

SCOTIA WOOS APPLE PAY

Jamaica – Jamaicans will gain access to Apple Pay in 2025 when the Bank of Nova Scotia Jamaica (BNSJ) becomes the first local bank to partner with the US$3 trillion giant… more

Enhancing security, digital transformation, and economic efficiency

Trinidad and Tobago – FOR the upcoming budget, the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago (Amcham T&T) is calling on the Government to enhance national security measures by introducing a comprehensive maintenance plan for crime detection and enforcement equipment and implementing advanced DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) testing and forensic capabilities… more

Thursday, 12 September 2024

‘School safe’ after social media alarm

Bahamas – CONCERNING social media posts from 9th grade Lyford Cay International School students prompted a police investigation… more

IGT Coding & Robotics Rock! Camp equips youth for new school year

Sint Maarten – A student from the St. Maarten Youth Council eagerly awaits the start of a coding session during the IGT Coding and Robotics Rock! Camp… more

Friday, 13 September 2024

Network Engineer Byron Sierra Inspires STEM Studies Class at St. Ignatius High School, Santa Elena Town, Cayo District, Belize C.A.

Belize – Nеtwоrk еngіnееr Вуrоn Ѕіеrrа vіѕіtеd Ѕt. Іgnаtіuѕ Ніgh Ѕсhооl’ѕ ЅТЕМ Ѕtudіеѕ сlаѕѕ оn 12th Ѕерtеmbеr 2024, whеrе hе ѕhаrеd hіѕ саrееr јоurnеу аnd іnѕіghtѕ wіth аѕріrіng еngіnееrѕ… more

Cayman’s connectivity now at full strength following Maya-1 repairs

Cayman Islands – Cayman’s recent outages of international internet connectivity have come to an end with the completion of repairs to the Maya-1 undersea cable, utilities regulator OfReg has announced… more

DNO Alert: DNO not linked to fake news about Matt Peltier

Dominica – It has been brought to the attention of Dominica News Online (DNO) that a fake news article about talk show host, Matt Peltier that has been circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, has been attributed to our news outlet… more

Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court advances in digital transformation

Caribbean – As the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) progresses into the realm of digitalization with the third and final module of the E-litigation portal officially launched in Dominica, even further advancement appears to be underway… more

Digital Diplomacy: Grenada’s opportunity to lead Caricom into the future

Grenada – In an era where digital innovation is key to national development, Grenada, under the leadership of Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, is uniquely positioned to pioneer a novel model for international cooperation: Digital Diplomacy… more

Insurance sector main target for cyberattacks

Trinidad and Tobago – WHILE data on cyber risks in this country are limited, evidence and public reports suggest that firms have been experiencing various types of cybercrime, including ransomware, phishing, and data breaches, leading to significant losses, according to the Central Bank’s latest financial stability report… more

Why I am leaving Trinidad and Tobago after 10 years

Trinidad and Tobago – IN a candid discussion on X, Kyle Maloney, co-founder of Tech Beach, captured a sentiment that resonates with many in our nation today: “I see many people struggling to find their footing in Trinidad, and I know that if they changed their location, they would thrive, big time.” … more

                                                                                         Saturday, 14 September 2024

– Nil –

Sunday, 15 September 2024

Digital transformation will have cybersecurity edge: govt tech officer

Barbados – Barbados is on the brink of a sweeping digital transformation, with a particular focus on enhancing its cybersecurity infrastructure, the government’s chief technological officer has said… more

Guyana Cybercrime Law Will Only Apply To Criminals, Says Minister.

Guyana – Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party , has repeated that the move to amend the Cybercrime Act of 2018 is not intended to stifle online discourse among Guyanese, but it is intended to target online criminal activities such as child pornography… more

Flow bids farewell to 2 respected managers at special retirement ceremony

Jamaica – Flow Jamaica recently hosted a retirement event for Opal Neil, former Senior Manager Regulatory Affairs and Juliet Best, former Manager Regulatory Compliance. These two former members of the Legal and Regulatory team dedicated many years of expertise and guidance to the company and its affiliate, Cable & Wireless Communications… more

Digital health education platforms for schools

Jamaica – With the ever-increasing incidence of non-communicable diseases, there is a critical need for more ways to deliver comprehensive health education… more

JBDC aiming to alleviate MSMEs’ anxiety amid digital transformation push

Jamaica – The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is optimistic that the Digital Jamaica Summit & Showcase hosted at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel recently will offset some of the anxiety among Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) as they seek to go digital with their operations… more

PRISON CELL DISCONNECT

Jamaica – A law enacted nearly three years ago to stem the influx of cell phones in prisons has failed its first test, forcing a prosecutor to end the trial of a prisoner who was purportedly discovered with two mobile devices in his cell at a maximum-security facility… more

Y Smart Data launches address database, will help reduce insurance fraud

Jamaica – Y Smart Data has introduced its curated address database for the island, highlighting the benefits for the insurance industry… more

Image credits: kalhh (Pixabay); Wikipedia; BTC (Facebook); CompaniesLogo; Wikipedia; Wikimedia Commons

Across the Caribbean, the carrier, Digicel, is beginning the process of decommissioning its Second Generation (2G) mobile/cellular network. The announcement was made earlier this year that the 2G network would be phased out and that after 31 August 2024, 2G devices would no longer be able to connect to the network.

Truthfully, Digicel’s intention to shut down early-generation technology infrastructure is not new. From as early as 2018, senior executives had given notice, as it was costly to operate and manage multiple generations of technology. In other words, the shutdown was a long time coming.

However, when the announcement was made in local papers over the past week that the decommissioning would occur on 4 September, there may have been momentary panic in some quarters as possible concerns and real-life implications could follow. On the other hand, the other regional carrier, Flow, had begun the phased shutdown of its 2G network earlier in the year, so there was some precedent and the opportunity to mitigate challenges or consequences that could emerge.

In this article, we outline some of the benefits and disadvantages of decommissioning 2G networks in the region as well as some consequences and considerations going forward,

Pros of the 2G network shutdown

First, and among the biggest benefits to the telco of decommissioning older technologies are the cost savings and improved operations-related efficiencies that will result.  Maintaining older networks is expensive and can be complicated when 3G and 4G networks must also be managed. Decommissioning the 2G network can help reduce operational costs and allow the organisation to invest in future growth.

Second, decommissioning 2G and earlier technology networks can free up valuable spectrum that can be reallocated to newer, more efficient technologies like 4G and 5G. Currently, Caribbean countries are eager for their local telcos to deploy 5G technology, but companies, such as Digicel, have been reluctant to do so due to viability concerns. However, shutting down older services and streamlining their existing operations can lead to improved network performance, increased capacity, and the introduction of new services – including 5G.

Cons of the 2G network shutdown

Many of the disadvantages surrounding the decommissioning of a 2G network tend to be felt by consumers. First, many older mobile devices, particularly feature phones and some smartphones, rely on 2G networks for connectivity. Decommissioning will render these devices obsolete, forcing users to upgrade. Further, for those who rely on 2G for basic services, such as voice calls and SMS (Short Messaging Service), the decommissioning could lead to service disruption, especially in rural areas with limited access to other networks. However, another group affected when Flow shut down its 2G network was persons with disabilities, which was reported in Saint Lucia.

Additionally, the decommissioning of the 2G network could have financial implications for businesses and individuals who rely on 2G-connected devices for their operations or have invested in 2G devices for resale. Regarding the latter, shops that have purchased 2G devices for resale may find they have dead stock on their hands that is no longer sellable. Similarly, businesses that use 2G-enabled IoT devices may need to invest in upgrades or find alternative solutions.

Possible implications going forward

The shutting down of 2G and even 3G networks has been occurring worldwide over the past several years, and the Caribbean countries have just begun that journey. One of the overarching benefits is the potential for network improvements, especially as there are extensive internet service quality complaints across the region. Being able to reallocate radio frequencies to improve existing networks could result in improved coverage, speed, and reliability, which consumers would appreciate.

On the other hand, the digital divide could be exacerbated, especially in rural areas where access to newer networks may be limited, or among certain communities where suitable devices may not be readily available. Hence without appropriate intervention, these segments of society may not end up excluded and without the means to be connected and to access and use essential services like education, healthcare, and government services, which we take for granted.

In summary, although the evolution of technology is inevitable, and there are benefits to be realised, it is easy to overlook those who could be adversely affected or situations in which undesired consequences could occur. However, it is thus crucial to identify and address the potential challenges, to not only ensure a smooth transition for customers but that digital equity and inclusion are also fostered.

Image credit:  louvainlaneuve9 (Pixabay)

Monday, 26 August 2024

Work-related data increases by as much as 1000%

Caribbean – According to a representative of TRG Datacenters, “This evolution is not just about adding more features; it’s about enhancing the overall experience with richer content and stronger functionalities. Interestingly, while some apps have expanded significantly, others have focused on refining their efficiency, balancing growth with optimization… more

Digicel Grenada $3 million investment in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Grenada – In the aftermath of the devastating Hurricane Beryl, which severely impacted the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Digicel is proud to announce its commitment to restoring and enhancing internet connectivity across the region… more

Internet services are back in Carriacou: Flow announces new solution

Grenada – Flow is excited to announce the return of high-speed internet services to Carriacou and Petite Martinique… more

 Phase one of gov’t’s satellite connectivity for hinterland completed – PM’s office

Guyana – The Office of the Prime Minister says that its facilitating agency, the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), has completed phase one of the Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) Satellite Connectivity project, which aims to benefit over 250 hinterland, remote, and riverain communities, by the end of this year… more

What’s needed to make e-Governance happen?

Trinidad and Tobago – At AmCham’s Tech Hub Islands Summit on July 02, e-Government was on the agenda and the discussion quickly turned to the essentials that must be in place to make that happen… more

Tuesday, 27 August 2024

Closing the digital gap in Jamaica’s business sector

Jamaica – Scrolling through the Jamaica Business Development Corporation’s (JBDC) Things Jamaican e-commerce site, Amazon storefront or social media pages, you will see hundreds of Jamaican products made by local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) – a signal of the agency’s efforts to provide global market access for whom an e-commerce website is out of reach… more

JBDC to Host Digital Jamaica Summit on September 3

Jamaica – In a bid to propel Jamaica’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) into the digital age, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) will be hosting the Digital Jamaica Summit and Showcase… more

BTP advises public on prohibition of Starlink antennas usage.

Sint Maarten – Bureau Telecommunications and Post Sint Maarten (BTP) is advising all resellers that the sale and distribution of Starlink antennas on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten is strictly prohibited. At present, Starlink, operated by SpaceX, is not authorized to provide telecommunication services through their antennas on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. Therefore, any transmission of Starlink telecommunication services is unlawful… more

Wednesday, 28 August 2024

Hospital in major data overhaul ‘to enhance patient care’

Barbados – The Queen Elizabeth Hospital is to undergo a complete digital technology overhaul in a bid to improve its healthcare delivery, including telemedicine, QEH officials have announced… more

Belize Coast Guard Gets 110 Miles Range Drones

Belize – The Belize Coast Guard has been equipped with military-grade drones that will allow them to extend their patrol far beyond what the eyes can see. Two Skyfront Perimeter Eight Hybrid Drones were commissioned today at an opening ceremony at the Coast Guard’s headquarters just outside of Belize City… more

Police Department to Get High-flying, Long-distance Drones

Belize – The Belize Police Department is also in the process of acquiring its own unmanned aerial assets. Commissioner of Police Chester Williams confirmed that these drones for the Belize Police Department are on the way. Among the uses of the drones will be to assists in operations along Belize’s northern border… more

Top online schools to learn new skills

Caribbean – In today’s global job market, traditional university education no longer guarantees career success, especially in smaller regions like the Caribbean, where universities often lag behind in teaching the latest in-demand skills… more

Parag presents boats, talks up Digital Skills Initiative to transform education in Region 2

Guyana – Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, visited Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam)  on Tuesday, highlighting a wave of transformative changes designed to upgrade education and infrastructure in the region… more

Digita Global CEO to highlight digital strategies for MSMEs

Jamaica – CEO of Digita Global Marketing (DGM) Kemal Brown plans to highlight the benefits of digital strategies needed to drive business growth for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) at the upcoming Digital Jamaica Summit & Showcase… more

Trust issues stymie cashless progress

Trinidad and Tobago – It’s been almost three years since Finance Minister Colm Imbert set a target of transitioning T&T to a cashless society by December 2022… more

Thursday, 29 August 2024

Customer interaction is now Augmented Reality

Bahamas – In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Augmented Reality (AR) has emerged as a revolutionary tool, transforming the landscape of marketing and sales. No longer just a futuristic concept, AR is now a mainstream technology, offering brands an innovative way to engage with customers, enhance their shopping experience and drive sales… more

Credit unions join forces with Sagicor Bank for new digital service

Barbados – The Barbados Co-operative & Credit Union League Limited (BCCULL) is set to transform financial access for  credit unions and their members in a breakthrough partnership with Sagicor Bank (Barbados), and VENTI Global Inc… more

An Online Platform for Education on Belize’s Legacy

Belize – The Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology has launched an online platform that brings Belize’s ever-evolving history at your fingertips… more

Bureau Telecommunications and Post Sint Maarten clarifies misleading statements in media.

Sint Maarten – Bureau Telecommunications and Post Sint Maarten (BTP) would like to address and correct the misleading statements that have recently circulated in the media… more

The digital nomad lifestyle – Why I’m moving to Thailand

Trinidad and Tobago – After spending the last ten years living in TT, I’ve decided to move to Thailand, and I couldn’t be more excited about this new chapter in my life… more

Friday, 30 August 2024

DIANE PHILLIPS: Who invented e-mail anyway?

Bahamas – I have 59,775 e-mails in my inbox, 5,532 unread, and I am not even an important person. Oops, make that 59,776 and climbing. Most of them are business-related, some are general – what’s on at an art gallery next month, entertainment line-up at a resort – and every now and then, a personal note slips through… more

IFC, Microsoft agree to drive digital transformation in LatAm and C’bean

Caribbean – The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Microsoft signed a strategic agreement to identify and enhance investment opportunities in digital transformation across Latin America and the Caribbean… more

Samsung eyes more AI roll-out in region

Caribbean – SAMSUNG is planning to expand AI features beyond its premium S series phones in the region as it expects the technology to drive growth in the smartphone market in coming months amidst improvements in regional consumer spending… more

Digicel and Flow say no usage charges for customers without service

Jamaica – Following customer complaints about the continued receipt of bills without service since Hurricane Beryl, the two major telecoms providers, Digicel and Flow, are moving to clarify that there is no usage charge for the period of interruption for those who remain without service… more

NIDS for rollout by year end, says Morris Dixon

Jamaica – Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon, says the long-awaited National Identification System (NIDS) should be officially launched by the end of 2024… more

MyApp Summer Programme turns out enthusiasts in Robotics

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – After three weeks of training, a number of secondary school students have successfully graduated from the MyAPP Summer Programme which was facilitated by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC). It was held at two locations this year, including at Georgetown… more

Energy Chamber to use AI for safety certification

Trinidad and Tobago – THE Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago says it will soon begin using artificial intelligence (AI) to “significantly enhance the efficiency” of its Safe to Work (Stow) certification process… more

Saturday, 31 August 2024

C&W Business reaffirms commitment to First Angels Caribbean

Jamaica – C&W Business has pledged its continued support to First Angels Caribbean, a network of angel investors dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship across the region… more

Harnessing the Power of IoT: A game changer for businesses

Jamaica – As businesses across the region face increasing pressure to innovate and remain competitive, The Internet of Things (IoT) presents a unique opportunity to drive growth, boost efficiency, and optimize operations in ways previously unimaginable… more

Sunday, 1 September 2024

C&W Communications graduate programme continues to invest in Caribbean talent development

Jamaica – Three young professionals have been recruited to join C&W Communications’ highly competitive graduate programme… more

Online access carves market share off college texts, inspirational book sales

Jamaica – The sale of texts for tertiary education, as well as inspirational books, including Bibles, have plummeted by about 70 per cent over the last few years because of their availability online, according to the head of one of the largest booksellers in the country… more

Images credit: rawpixel.com (Pexels); JBDC; Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Marketing Magazine

Monday, 19 August 2023 

WiPay empowers with GOVPAY Digital Payment Management System 

Grenada – WiPay, the Caribbean’s leading digital payment solutions provider, is pleased to announce its renewed commitment to the Government of Grenada with the confirmation of an additional 3-year contract… more  

Govt. touts greater access to info from public agencies with Open Data Bill 

Guyana – Guyana is on the path to having a law which caters for greater access to information by citizens with the tabling of the Open Data Bill… more  

Taiwan and SVG Collaborate on Advanced ICT Projects 

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – On 16 August, Ambassador Fiona Huei-Chun Fan and Assistant Commissioner Leonard Fergus co-visited the E-Bus and Security Operation Center, and exchanged views on a range of issues, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT) projects and future cooperation fields… more  

TelEm Group says telecommunication benefits for St. Maarten are many now that the company’s SMPR-1 cable is repaired.

Sint Maarten – TelEm Group expects to return to full service of its newly repaired SMPR-1 undersea fiber cable as early as September, bringing with it a host of benefits for customers on St. Maarten… more  

TelEm Group successfully repairs SMPR-1 cable after 8-year hiatus  

Sint Maarten – The TelEm Group is excited to announce the successful restoration of its SMPR-1 undersea cable, which has been out of commission for nearly eight years. The repair work, conducted at Playa Isla Verde, San Juan, Puerto Rico, was completed despite challenging weather conditions, including the threat of Tropical Storm Ernesto… more  

Changing the education conversation  

Trinidad and Tobago – On June 30, the Prime Minister gave a commencement speech to more than 400 graduates at the University of the Southern Caribbean… more  

Disgusted with TSTT’s service 

Trinidad and Tobago – THE EDITOR: I wish to register my utter disgust with the internet service provided by TSTT. Around 7 am on July 11, I realised that I did not have internet service… more  

Time for local content law for radio stations 

Trinidad and Tobago – THE EDITOR: As we approach the national budget, I would like to propose an initiative that has the potential to generate new revenue, create opportunities for our youth, and reduce foreign exchange outflows. That initiative is: the passage of legislation mandating minimum levels of local content on our radio stations… more  

Tuesday, 20 August 2023 

Belize launches network of Digital Connect Centers 

Belize – Belize has completed Phase 1 of its Digital Inclusion Program, marking a significant step towards expanding digital access nationwide… more  

Cell Phone Repair Course for Women and Youth Launched in Corozal 

Guyana – A new training program focused on cell phone repair has been launched in Corozal Town. The Corozal Think Tank, which oversees the Regional Economic Development Masterplan for Corozal District, is collaborating with the Ministry of Investment and the Women’s Commission to provide this training… more  

Wednesday, 21 August 2023 

URCA begins public consultation on electronic communications sector licence review  

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has launched a public consultation process to review and modify existing Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) licenses. This initiative aims to maintain a regulatory framework that is robust, equitable, and aligned with the evolving needs of both the industry and the Bahamian public… more  

URCA’s changes to electronic comms sector to include stricter fee delinquency penalties  

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) yesterday released its public consultation process for the changes it proposes to make that will affect licensees in the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS)… more  

URCA proposes expanding content regulation to digital and social media in revised code  

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority (URCA) has released a consultation document proposing revisions to the Code of Practice for Content Regulation, including extending its applicability to broadcast licensees’ digital and social media platforms… more  

Carib$ goes live with first regional transfer  

Caribbean – Pan Caribbean digital payment system Carib$ successfully showcased its first live transfer recently between companies in Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago and St Vincent and the Grenadines… more  

CXC launches e-Preslip  

Caribbean – Candidates who sat the May/June 2024 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) tests will be able to access their preliminary results in digital format… more  

How to leverage AI and new SEO rules to grow online  

Caribbean – THE digital landscape is constantly evolving, and with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), we’re entering a new era of search. AI isn’t just a buzzword — it’s fundamentally changing how search engines operate and how users interact with the web… more  

More smartphone cheats in CXC exams 

Caribbean – The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has revealed a concerning rise in exam irregularities, driven by the increased use of smartphones and smartwatches to cheat during the May/June 2024 exam period… more  

Thursday, 22 August 2023 

‘Pay up or operating licence suspended’ proposes URCA  

Bahamas – CHANGES are being proposed to the electronic communications sector in a new consultation document released by the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA)… more  

CCT sets the tone in resilience for BVI telecoms  

British Virgin Islands – Caribbean Cellular Telephone (CCT) continues to establish itself as the most reliable choice for telecommunications in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). This reputation was further solidified during the recent passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto, which has since intensified into Hurricane Ernesto… more  

AI reshaping talent, skills opportunities  

Caribbean – The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in accountancy and finance presents challenges and opportunities for the profession… more  

Top online schools to learn new skills  

Caribbean – In today’s global job market, traditional university education no longer guarantees career success, especially in smaller regions like the Caribbean, where universities often lag behind in teaching the latest in-demand skills… more  

High-tech mineral mapping will reduce cost of gold prospecting, preserve environment, says officials  

Guyana – Wednesday inked a US$1.875 million dollar agreement to begin a high-tech multi-year mineral mapping exercise, the first since 1968, to pinpoint gold deposits and reduce the cost of prospecting, officials said… more 

Other than digitizing and integrating existing geological data, what else is this mineral mapping expected to achieve? 

Guyana – Dear Editor, The recent reports that the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has commissioned “Consulting Services for Mineral Mapping Study of Guyana’s Mineral Resources (Gold Resources and Non-traditional Minerals)” stirred my interest as someone who has some familiarity with such work… more  

‘Watch out for third-party IT risk’ 

Trinidad and Tobago – Managing director ACE Strategic Solutions and vice president of the ISC2 (International Information System Security Certification Consortium) Caribbean Chapter, Ricardo Fraser, is urging local businesses to adopt third-party risk management (TPRM) practices following the Microsoft outage in July, which resulted in businesses affected globally, to the tune of billions of US dollars… more  

Friday, 23 August 2023 

Police mull dedicated social media monitoring unit to reduce crime 

Antigua and Barbuda – Police are considering enhancing their social media monitoring capabilities by establishing a dedicated unit to that end in an effort to curtail criminal behaviour by youth gangs… more  

Consultation begins on 5G communications 

Bahamas – CONSULTATION is being launched over 5G communications technology in The Bahamas… more  

URCA releases consultation document for 5G  

Bahamas – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) released its consultation document on the roadmap to enable 5G deployment in The Bahamas yesterday, outlining that one of the biggest hurdles to rolling out 5G will be the large financial investment stakeholders will have to make to facilitate its delivery… more  

URCA unveils draft ‘roadmap’ for 5G deployment in The Bahamas  

Bahamas – URCA has developed a draft ‘roadmap’ to identify and address regulatory and policy issues essential for the deployment of 5G technology in The Bahamas… more  

12 Caribbean countries better equipped to advance digital transformation 

Caribbean – Policy makers from twelve Caribbean territories are now better equipped to accelerate digital transformation and digitalisation efforts and take actionable steps toward a more sustainable and inclusive digital future for their citizens… more  

Cayman is regional leader in 5G network availability 

Cayman Islands – At the Caribbean Spectrum Management Conference held in Jamaica earlier this year, the Cayman Islands was singled out as being ahead of the curve in the region when it comes to wireless broadband connectivity. Both Flow and Digicel launched 5G services in June… more  

Digicel’s data service in the North Rupununi are a major disappointment for its subscribers 

Guyana – Dear Editor, The vexatious issue of Digicel’s data service in the North Rupununi and some other hinterland locations has been highlighted previously both on social media and in the print media but no remedial action has been taken to date… more  

Govt. working to equip hinterland with telemedicine features 

Guyana – The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister is working to install internet connectivity in health facilities across hinterland regions, ensuring telemedicine options are available… more  

Cyberattacks drop 78 per cent  

Jamaica – ATTEMPTED cyberattacks on networks in Jamaica fell 78 per cent over the first six months of this year with the country recording four million such attacks over the period compared to 19 million attempts for the same period last year, according to global cybersecurity solutions company Fortinet… more  

Flow to move portion of core network underground  

Jamaica – CABLE & Wireless is about to invest millions into moving more of its network infrastructure below ground to prevent downtime from hurricanes. The investment comes as part of funds its parent company, Liberty Latin America Limited (LILA), will be spending to move 170 kilometres of its core network/backbone underground across the Caribbean as it looks to build back in certain jurisdictions from Hurricane Beryl… more  

Paying taxes, fees online – way to go 

Trinidad and Tobago – THE EDITOR: I was heartened to see articles in the newspapers this week signalling the Minister of Finance’s support for financial inclusion and more digital transactions… more  

Saturday, 24 August 2023 

Data Protection Commissioner responds to DLP e-voting complaint 

Barbados – The Data Protection Commission (DPC) has formally responded to a complaint by a member of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) regarding the party’s proposed electronic voting system, which has sparked debate over the handling of sensitive personal data… more  

100% digital certificates of deposit  

Dominican Republic – Qik Banco Digital Dominicano, S.A. Banco Múltiple, a subsidiary of Grupo Popular, launched its 100% digital certificates of deposit, which offer benefits that make them attractive products for people who want to grow their savings… more  

Gov’t to equip hinterland with telemedicine features – Anthony tells NTC conference 

Guyana – As part of government’s commitment to enhancing the delivery of healthcare in the hinterland regions, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister is working to install internet connectivity in health facilities across these regions to ensure the availability of telemedicine options, a release from the Department of Public Information (DPI) stated yesterday… more  

Jagdeo warns citizens not to fall prey of online scam falsely using prominent figures 

Guyana – General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) and Vice President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo has cautioned the public about a number of online scams that are misusing the images of well-known Guyanese leaders for fraudulent activities… more  

Digital Literacy Summer Training Sessions Begin 

Saint Lucia – The Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP) in partnership with the Taiwan Technical Mission, the Division of Innovation within the Ministry of Education, and Bank of Saint Lucia, is currently conducting Digital Literacy Summer Training Sessions across various communities island-wide… more  

Cashless society needed for financial inclusion 

Trinidad and Tobago – HESITANCY to embrace a cashless society remains evident, as a survey conducted by the European Union and the United Nations Capital Development Fund reveals a strong preference for cash savings among citizens… more  

Sunday, 25 August 2023 

Digicel upgraded but under pressure 

Jamaica – The financial performance of telecoms Digicel Group has stabilised, with its operations generating over US$14 million in cash for the year, leading to a rating upgrade by Moody’s… more  

Images credit: rawpixel.com (Freepik); Telem Group; Bahamas Weekly; Wikipedia; Wikipedia; Wikipedia

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

Empowerment is often defined as the process of becoming stronger, more purposeful, and capable of achieving more. However, people cannot empower others; they can only offer guidance and support. Empowerment is something that individuals must do for themselves and is one of the common themes in this month’s Community Chat episode.

In our August Community Chat, communities come together to provide for themselves what others are not prepared to do. Additionally, we find people with common interests and experiencing similar challenges coming together to create something greater than themselves that would be better positioned to do more than they can do individually.

However, before we delve into the specifics of our discussions, do allow us to introduce our guests and thereafter, share the topics discussed.

Introducing our guests

Nima Anvar is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of GuestChat, a conversational AI platform that develops customised chatbots for hotels.

Nima is a hotelier with over two decades of hands-on experience in Hotel Management. He collaborates with hoteliers, general managers, and marketing managers to guide them in implementing chatbots. His passion is to apply the latest advances in Generative AI in the hospitality industry. Nima and his team are bringing AI bot technology to hotels around the world.

Max Larson Henry is a network engineer, ICT instructor, and entrepreneur who founded Transversal in 2005, a company specialising in Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) networks, ICT training, and mobile application development. His company partners with major tech entities like Cisco, Microsoft, CompTIA, and Ubiquiti, deploying applications across Haiti, Nepal, East Timor, and the United States.

He serves as President of the Haitian Association for Information and Communication Technologies (AHTIC) and Vice President of the Haitian Internet Society Chapter. He has played significant roles in initiatives like the Cisco Networking Academy, the Haitian Internet Exchange Point, and the AYITIC Goes Global project (LACNIC). His contributions to ICT have earned him multiple recognitions, including the 2016 Digicel National Entrepreneur of the Year – Service Category, and awards from USAID and Harvard Business School for his pioneering efforts in mobile money and educational support in Haiti.

Introducing the topics discussed

In most countries and communities, we access internet service via a local telecoms company licensed to provide that service. However, for various reasons, there might be communities that are not connected to the local internet infrastructure thus maintaining and even widening the digital divide in the country. However, in such situations, communities can come together to establish and maintain an Internet connection themselves. So, our first topic was Community internet networks with Max sharing how these networks have been deployed in Haiti, which has been and continues to experience a broad range of disruptions.

Our second topic was the Eastern Caribbean Association of Science and Technology (ECAST), a recently established association that seeks to transform the Eastern Caribbean into a technologically advanced and digitally empowered region. Nima is the President of ECAST, so we discussed key challenges tech entrepreneurs have been experiencing as well as some of the innovative products and services that are being developed.

Finally, using a Letter to the Editor published in a Guyanese newspaper as a jump-off point, we discuss, Can Caribbean online shoppers get more protection?, on the tightrope Caribbean shoppers walk having made online purchases that may or may not be successfully delivered to them in their home country.

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:

• Nima Anvar
• Max Larson Henry
• GuestChat
• Internet Society Haïti Chapter
• Internet Society
• Internet Society Foundation article, Empowering Haiti: How the Internet is Improving Lives in Communities
• Eastern Caribbean Association of Science and Technology (ECAST)
• Kaieteur News article, More protection needed for online shoppers 

Images credit:  N Anvar;  M L Henry;  Hunter Masters (Unsplash);  Christian Schröder (Pixabay); Shane Rounce (Unsplash)

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

Podcast editing support:  Mayra Bonilla Lopez

Monday, 12 August 2023

Practical steps to reducing cybersecurity risks

Caribbean – On Thursday, the Caribbean Chapter of the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2) hosted a webinar on third-party risk assessment… more

TelEm Group offices closing at 1:00 pm Tuesday due to inclement weather.

Sint Maarten – Due to the expected passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto, TelEm Group will be closing its office locations at 1:00 pm Tuesday, August 13, 2024… more

Tuesday, 13 August 2023

NexGen provides free internet for Santa Cruz Government School in Santa Elena

Belize – On August 12, 2024, NEXGEN Belize provided free internet installation for all classrooms at the Santa Cruz Government School in Santa Elena Town… more

Flow stores temporarily close due to Tropical Storm Ernesto

British Virgin Islands – Telecommunications provider, Flow, is advising the public that its retail stores in the British Virgin Islands will be closed from 11am on Tuesday, August 13, tentatively until Thursday, August 15, due to the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto… more

Guyanese companies team up to deploy Spain-headquartered FERMAX “cutting-edge security solutions”

Guyana – Vista Services Inc. has announced that it has become the exclusive distributor of Fermax Video Access Control Systems in Guyana… more

Wednesday, 14 August 2023

END OF AN ERA: Super Value to replace iconic stamps with digital point system in 2025

Bahamas – After 35 years, Super Value will discontinue its quality stamps on January 1, 2025, transitioning the popular shopping incentive into a digital customer rewards initiative… more

Flow expects US$44m payout for Beryl

Caribbean – Hurricane Beryl triggered insurance payouts for Flow’s operations in Jamaica and select islands, equating to an estimated US$44 million, the parent company of the regional telecommunications services provider has said… more

New online platform bolsters Caribbean literary scene

Caribbean – AuthorsandWritersHub.com, a novel online directory and resource centre for writers and authors in Barbados and the wider Caribbean, has made its debut. The platform aims to showcase published works by regional authors whilst providing guidance on book publishing and marketing… more

140 participants graduate from JUMP programme with digital literacy

Jamaica – The Cable and Wireless Charitable Foundation (CWCF) recently facilitated 140 students from across the Caribbean to successfully complete its JUMP programme… more

AI workshop empowers teachers for the classroom

Jamaica – Hosted at The University of the West Indies, Western Jamaica Campus, educators from Ministry of Education’s regions three (St Ann and Trelawny) and four (St James, Westmoreland, Hanover) participated in a recent workshop aimed at exploring the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom… more

Electronic banking transactions valued at $1.7 trillion last year

Jamaica – ABM and point-of-sale (POS) Jamaican-dollar transactions processed by deposit-taking institutions last year grew to $1.77 trillion —11 per cent above the $1.59 trillion recorded in the previous year… more

TelEm Group offices resuming business opening hours Wednesday following passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto.

Sint Maarten – TelEm Group will be re-opening its doors on Wednesday, August 14, following the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto… more

Thursday, 15 August 2023

New SEO rules to grow online: How to leverage AI

Caribbean – The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), we are entering a new era of search… more

Biometric smart card: e-passport

Trinidad and Tobago – On March 6, 2016, a female Canadian citizen was denied boarding when she attempted to check in on a Caribbean Airlines (CAL) flight to Toronto with an expired Canadian passport… more

Friday, 16 August 2023

Digicel battles to restore service after TS Ernesto

British Virgin Islands – Telecommunications provider Digicel has announced that it is working to restore mobile and fibre services disrupted by Tropical Storm Ernesto… more

Flow technicians progressing with post-storm repairs

British Virgin Islands – Leading telecommunications provider Flow has begun a massive restoration drive to reconnect its residential and business customers following the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto in the Territory on Tuesday, August 13… more

It is incumbent that citizens are protected from cyber extortion

Guyana – Dear Editor, The international nature of cyber extortion highlights the necessity for collaborative efforts among nations to bring perpetrators to justice, often through extradition… more

Saturday, 17 August 2023

Move to mix robotics, renewable energy into schools

Barbados – Minister of Energy and Business Development Senator Lisa Cummins has proposed the development of an educational programme combining robotics and renewable energy for schools across Barbados…more

Keron Bruce fined $3M for cybercrime

Guyana – Photographer Keron Bruce who was charged with a cybercrime based on the accusation that he spread false information about reporter Leroy Smith, was yesterday found guilty by Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court and fined $3 million to be paid in one month or he faces imprisonment… more

Sunday, 18 August 2023

The cybersecurity law, as is, is a threat to democracy

Guyana – Dear Editor,  As concerned citizens, it is our duty to speak out against any legislation that threatens the fundamental rights and freedoms we hold dear… more

Images credit:  Ono Kosuki (Pexels); Flow (Facebook); Wikimedia Commons; Wikipedia