{"id":171693,"date":"2024-10-21T04:30:00","date_gmt":"2024-10-21T09:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ict-pulse.com\/?p=171693"},"modified":"2024-10-21T04:31:20","modified_gmt":"2024-10-21T09:31:20","slug":"roundup-for-the-week-ending-20-october-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ict-pulse.com\/2024\/10\/roundup-for-the-week-ending-20-october-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"Roundup: for the week ending 20 October 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A roundup of the latest ICT\/technology news from across the Caribbean region for the period Monday 14 October to Sunday 20 October 2024.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Monday, 14 October 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Telecom market battle heats up<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados<\/em> \u2013 Cable and Wireless (Barbados) Limited (C&W) and Digicel have been battling it out for market supremacy since Government liberalised the telecommunications market about 20 years ago\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project to install 100,000 prepaid smart electricity meters<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Haiti <\/em>\u2013 Efforts to improve Haiti\u2019s fragile power grid are moving forward with a $15 million project aimed at reducing commercial and technical losses by the Electricit\u00e9 d\u2019Ha\u00efti (EDH) company\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

New customers can now open a Scotiabank account online<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 Scotiabank has announced that starting October 1, 2024, prospective clients in the Caribbean wishing to open an account can now do so entirely online\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tuesday, 15 October 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Anguilla benefits from AI boom with .ai domain surge<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Anguilla <\/em>\u2013 The artificial intelligence boom has benefited chatbot makers, computer scientists and Nvidia investors. It’s also providing an unusual windfall for Anguilla, a tiny island in the Caribbean\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From outrage to action: Strengthening cybersecurity in Barbados<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados<\/em> \u2013 Barbados often experiences a national outrage phenomenon that unfolds in predictable stages. It starts with disbelief, swiftly followed by collective outrage and an intense search for someone to blame. However, within nine to 12 days, the fervour dissipates, leaving the issue largely unresolved\u2014a fleeting storm of public concern often termed a \u201c12-day wonder\u201d\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Local group to challenge Cybercrime Bill before OAS human rights commission<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados<\/em> \u2013 A delegation of Barbadian citizens, calling themselves the \u2018Loyal Opposition\u2019, has been granted a hearing before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to challenge the government\u2019s proposed Cybercrime Bill 2024\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

PSVs to go cashless soon<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados<\/em> \u2013 Public service vehicles (PSVs) and taxis will soon adopt a cashless payment system, set to be introduced in the coming weeks, the project\u2019s technical coordinator Dwayne Roach said Monday.  more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bridging the Grey Digital Divide in Belize<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Belize <\/em>\u2013 The digital gap, often called the grey digital divide, is a real challenge for older folks trying to navigate the digital world. Studies show this divide can lead to isolation, limited access to services, online vulnerabilities, and fewer learning opportunities\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four CARICOM States Pilot Digital TVET Delivery Initiative<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean <\/em>\u2013 Four CARICOM Member States are participating in the pilot phase of the Digitalisation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Delivery Project. This crucial effort is poised to transform how the people of the Caribbean Community access instructional programmes or courses that focus on the skills required for a specific job function or trade\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica\u2019s Cutting-Edge Land Management Innovations Showcased to Visiting Delegation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 The National Land Agency (NLA) recently hosted members of a St. Vincent and the Grenadines delegation that visited to explore Jamaica\u2019s advancements in digital transformation, particularly in the areas of land titling and geospatial technology\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Online shopping tax generates $369.4m for Govt<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Trinidad and Tobago <\/em>\u2013 AFTER introducing a 7 per cent tax on online purchases in 2016, the Government has earned $369,356,286 in the eight years since its implementation\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Wednesday, 16 October 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\u2018Last resort\u2019: URCA licensees \u2018flouting\u2019 annual fee payment<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Bahamas <\/em>\u2013 Communications providers have been reassured by regulators that revoking their licence for non-payment of fees \u201cis a penalty of last resort\u201d given that \u201cmany have flouted the obligation\u201d to pay what is due\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MobileAssist\u00ae unveils web extensions for enhanced online payment solutions<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Bahamas <\/em>\u2013 A local fintech solutions company has launched new web extensions that enable customers to access services directly through their web browser, providing a more convenient payment experience\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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URCA acknowledges concerns over timing of ECS licenses consultation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Bahamas <\/em>\u2013 Cable Bahamas and the Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd, the country\u2019s two major communications providers, expressed concerns over the timing of URCA\u2019s consultation on modifications and variations to Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) licenses, with BTC contending that it had been \u201cleft until the last hour,\u201d having been issued just weeks before its license expiry, which left insufficient time for review and feedback\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

URCA finalizes 2024 ECS license review<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Bahamas <\/em>\u2013 The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) officially released its final determination on the Modifications and Variations to the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) Individual Licences, Class Licences, and Exemptions following an extensive public consultation process\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Penn bemoans outsourced financial services jobs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

British Virgin Islands <\/em>\u2013 Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn has expressed concern over the shifting of traditional financial services roles to outsourced labour\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Itelbpo embraces AI, launches \u2018itelligence\u2019<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 Artificial Intelligence is transforming the local business process outsourcing (BPO) sector as is evidenced by the unveiling of \u2018itelligence\u2019 by itelbpo\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Thursday, 17 October 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Payments provider unveils three web-based platforms<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Bahamas <\/em>\u2013 A Bahamian financial technology provider says it has launched three new web extensions to give consumers greater flexibility in accessing these services directly through their web browser\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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AG: Govt to stand by controversial Cybercrime Bill<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados<\/em> \u2013 The government confirmed Wednesday that it will defend its controversial Cybercrime Bill at a hearing before the Washington-based Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) in November\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2018Urgent threat\u2019 to critical infrastructure, warns cybersecurity expert<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados <\/em>\u2013 Barbados is facing an urgent need to strengthen its cybersecurity measures to protect critical national infrastructure, following recent data breaches at major institutions, according to cybersecurity expert Dr Curtis Charles\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

AI can transform accounting<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean<\/em> \u2013 Accountants are taking a leading role in shaping artificial intelligence (AI) and data strategies across businesses\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be Smart app aims to reduce stigma, challenges faced by vulnerable groups<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean <\/em>\u2013 The Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC) has introduced the Be Smart status application, an innovative tool that aims to address specific cultural and societal challenges faced by vulnerable groups in the country\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ECTEL Champions The EC Bill At CTU ICT Week 2024<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean<\/em> \u2013 The Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) proudly participated in the Caribbean Telecommunications Union\u2019s (CTU) ICT Week 2024, held under the theme \u201cBridging Technologies for a Sustainable and Inclusive Future\u201d\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opportunities for small businesses to adopt generative AI<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean<\/em> \u2013 The recently held regional colloquium during Small Business Week focused heavily on the digital transformation occurring globally and its impact on business. Particular emphasis was on the emergence of generative AI and its potential to change the way business is done in both the private and public sectors\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whatsapp Is Free, But How Much Does It Cost?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean<\/em> \u2013 The number of WhatsApp users in St. Kitts and Nevis is estimated to be a significant portion of the population, given that smartphone penetration is high and WhatsApp is the dominant messaging platform across the Caribbean\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

NCB launches block\/unblock feature for debit cards in mobile app<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCBJ) has introduced a new feature in its mobile app that allows customers to instantly block and unblock their debit cards in case of loss, theft, suspicious activity, or to manage their spending\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Friday, 18 October 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Cybercrime Bill: A necessary shield for Barbados\u2019 digital future<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados <\/em>\u2013 The rise of cyber threats has made cybersecurity a global priority. In Barbados, the Cybercrime Bill is a crucial step toward protecting the nation from digital crimes. While some Bajans may express concerns about the Bill\u2019s implications, it is vital to recognise the daily risks the country faces due to resistance to these protections\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Data Users Conference Seeks to Improve Data Collection<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Belize <\/em>\u2013 In observance of Caribbean Statistics Day, the Statistical Institute of Belize (S.I.B.) hosted its Second Annual Data Users Conference in Belize City today. The event featured presentations from various data-driven organisations, highlighting the SIB\u2019s work and how statistics can be utilised to enhance their efforts. While statistics hold great potential, the conference also addressed both the strengths and weaknesses within the system\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cVolatile relationship!\u201d CCT explains split with Heritage and Tola Radio<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

British Virgin Islands <\/em>\u2013 Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT) wishes to clarify recent discussions in the public domain concerning the termination of our service exchange agreement with Mr. Floyd \u201cHeritage\u201d Burnett and Tola Radio\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

AI Summit Explores Potential Benefits Of Technology<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean <\/em>\u2013 The present and future opportunities and challenges posed by the evolving advent of artificial intelligence (AI) were explored at the recent AI Summit Saint Lucia hosted as part of activities marking Productivity Awareness Week\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Businesses urged to strengthen cybersecurity systems<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 Business leaders are being urged to take decisive actions to strengthen their cybersecurity systems\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica Customs mobile app gains 7,300 subscribers in first year; electronic bill of lading coming<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 Jamaica Customs Agency has collected over $7 billion in duties through its mobile app that now has more than 7,000 registered users a year after its introduction\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From paper to pixels: A Million Government Documents to Be Digitized Through Trust Fund Activity<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Sint Maarten <\/em>\u2013 The Government of Sint Maarten is entering a new digital era, with a transformative activity tasked with converting one million paper documents into digital files by 2026\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Saturday, 19 October 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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BDF Cyber Unit leading investigation into Revenue Authority hack<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados<\/em> \u2013 Three weeks after a major data breach at the Barbados Revenue Authority led to personal information and vehicle registration documents being offered for sale online, officials say there\u2019s no evidence any of the stolen data was used for fraud or other harmful activities\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

FiX25 to help build out global fintech innovation in the Caribbean<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados<\/em> \u2013 The international Fintech Islands Experience (FiX) returns to the Caribbean for its third successive year, focusing on three core pillars as it seeks to fulfil its mission to build out the fintech ecosystem in the region\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Govt app to compare prices<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Barbados <\/em>\u2013 Government is closely monitoring food prices across major supermarket chains and inspectors will check anything that is outside the margin\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scotiabank wins Best Mobile Banking App Award again<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Caribbean <\/em>\u2013 Scotiabank has been awarded by Global Finance for having the Best Mobile Banking App in Barbados for the second consecutive year\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bridging the Digital Divide: Universal Service Fund Powers New Community Wi-Fi Project<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Saint Lucia <\/em>\u2013 A new chapter in digital accessibility begins for the Marchand community as the Universal Service Fund (USF) Office of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission \u2013 Saint Lucia, launches a much-needed Community Wi-Fi Project\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cashless society vs cashless transactions<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Trinidad and Tobago <\/em>\u2013 AS WE embrace the digital shift in our economy, it is vital for consumers to understand the difference between cashless transactions and a cashless society. While these terms may seem similar, they represent different concepts\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Sunday, 20 October 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

TOTALTEC Inc. launches E-Learning platform to equip Guyanese workforce with \u2018in-demand\u2019 skills<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Guyana <\/em>\u2013 TOTALTEC Inc., a 100% Guyanese-owned Company, on Friday has announced the launch of an innovative multi-sector e-learning platform, designed to equip the Guyanese workforce with in-demand skills\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3D printing in healthcare can change lives<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 Motor vehicle crashes have been a perennial problem for Jamaica and with the influx of small motorbikes over the last few years, it remains a major concern in every way, including for public health\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jamaican Digital pioneer Kemal Brown to address Horasis Global Meeting in Brazil<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Jamaica <\/em>\u2013 Kemal Brown, founder and chief executive officer of Digita Global Marketing, a thought leader in digital transformation, is set to share his insights on Brazil\u2019s journey toward full digitization at the prestigious Horasis Global Meeting, October 25-26, in Vit\u00f3ria, Brazil\u2026 more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Images credit:  Anna Keibalo (Unsplash<\/a>); The Bahamas Weekly<\/a>; Wikipedia<\/a>; Wikipedia<\/a>; Wikipedia<\/a>;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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