PM Phillips reaffirms cybersecurity as cornerstone of Guyana’s digital future

As Guyana continues to invest in digital infrastructure and public sector innovation, Prime Minister (PM), Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to advancing cybersecurity as a national priority.
Speaking at the opening of the Cybersecurity Fair hosted by the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), the PM emphasised the increasing threat posed by cybercrimes as Guyana expands its digital footprint.
He highlighted the critical need for public servants to be equipped with the skills and tools necessary to protect national systems.
According to the PM, the Government of Guyana has long recognised that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is much more than an afterthought; in his view, it is a cornerstone of national development. He added that through strategic investments in digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity, and e-Government services, the Government is ensuring that every citizen has access to the opportunities of a connected society.
Meanwhile, he cited global data from the World Economic Forum (WEF), which indicated that cybercrime cost the world economy US$11.5 trillion in 2023 — a figure projected to more than double by 2027. He stressed that as Guyana builds out digital services, including e-Government platforms and national systems, cybersecurity must remain a cornerstone of the digital transformation agenda.
In response to these global and regional threats, the PM pointed to the Government’s strategic move in 2024 to launch 43 cybersecurity policies, standards, and guidelines aimed at safeguarding public sector systems and information.
To top it off, the PM mentioned that these measures are being implemented across Government agencies and are already yielding results with several flagship initiatives, such as the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS) with e-ticketing capabilities, the Border Control System with e-gates at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), the Electronic Identification Card Project, and the National Health Records Management System, all improving service delivery through technology.
“To remain competitive in a rapidly evolving world, it is essential that our citizens access Government services seamlessly, securely, and efficiently. That is why we continue expanding our e-services portfolio — reducing bureaucracy and making interactions with Government agencies more convenient,” he stated.
Prime Minister Phillips also highlighted the work of the NDMA, noting the agency’s collaboration with regional and international partners. These include the 2024 CARICOM Regional ICT Sector Gap Analysis and the Digital Readiness Assessment, launched in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), both of which are helping Guyana shape an inclusive and resilient digital future.
“These investments are already producing tangible results. More communities now have access to improved internet connectivity, Government agencies are integrating digital solutions, and public services are becoming faster and more accessible,” he noted.
The PM also praised NDMA’s role in organising the Cybersecurity Fair, describing it as a critical positive step in equipping public servants with the tools and techniques needed to secure the country’s systems and serve its citizens more effectively.
He further called for a more cohesive approach to cybersecurity and urged all sectors to work together to ensure that the country’s digital revolution benefits every citizen. “The digital revolution is upon us, and Guyana will not be left behind. Together, let us build a smarter, safer, and more connected nation — one where every citizen can securely access the digital tools that will shape our future.”
The Cybersecurity Fair brought together Government agencies, ICT professionals, and cybersecurity experts for interactive workshops, live demonstrations, and knowledge-sharing sessions designed to enhance cybersecurity awareness and best practices in the public sector.
Guyana is among several Caribbean countries partnering with a Spanish satellite operator to enhance the telecommunications sector under an initiative aimed at improving digital connectivity for citizens across the region — a move to which Guyana is strongly committed.
In 2022, the European Union (EU) signed an agreement to strengthen digital connectivity in the Caribbean, aimed at enhancing telecommunications services across the region through the Spanish satellite operator Hispasat.
This led to the launch of Project CONDOSAT in March of 2025, where several Caribbean nations gathered to learn more about this ambitious initiative designed to boost technological advancement.
Hispasat, a Spanish satellite operator and service provider, covers the Americas, Europe, and North Africa from orbital positions, offering telecommunications services.