Chinese company to conduct assessment on nationwide broadband network

The Public Telecommunications Ministry signed an agreement with a Chinese firm, Huawei Telecommunications Equipment Company, to perform a comprehensive needs assessment to develop scope for the establishment of a nationwide broadband network.

Government spokesperson Raphael Trotman during his post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday explained that the assessment is a part of the country’s efforts to develop its Information Communication and Technology (ICT) hub.

He said the assessment will examine the level of effort and financing required and consideration of information systems application for all levels of Government.

According to the Minister, this agreement does not preclude Government from

entering into similar arrangements with other interested parties.

When asked about previous studies conducted on Guyana’s E-governance programme, Trotman noted that the assessments found that the existing plans cannot be used.

He said it is unfortunate that Government will have to start all over from scratch.

Meanwhile, Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes will be travelling to

Santiago, Chile, next month to participate in the Fourth Meeting of Ministers of E-government of Latin America and the Caribbean.

The meeting will bring together Latin American and Caribbean leaders in the information technology sector to develop frameworks to promote successful ICT policies for implementation of digital programmes in Government work.

Additionally, the forum will provide an opportunity for Guyana to build a network with Latin American and Caribbean countries and be provided with insights into how ICT is incorporated in their nations.

The forum is being hosted by the Inter-American Development Bank in collaboration with the Organisation of American States and the Government of Chile.

Director of the E-Government Unit under the Telecommunications Ministry, Floyd Levi, will be accompanying the Minister to this event.