Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to making cybersecurity a national priority, as Guyana accelerates its digital transformation and expands its digital infrastructure.
Speaking at the Cybersecurity Fair hosted by the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), Prime Minister Phillips highlighted the growing threat of cybercrime as the country deepens its investment in digital services and e-Government platforms. He emphasized that information and communication technology (ICT) is now a cornerstone of national development, not an afterthought, and that robust cybersecurity measures are essential to protect public sector systems and citizens’ data.
The Prime Minister cited alarming global statistics, noting that cybercrime cost the world economy US$11.5 trillion in 2023, with projections indicating that this figure could more than double by 2027. Against this backdrop, the government has launched 43 new cybersecurity policies, standards, and guidelines, which are being implemented across government agencies to safeguard national information systems. These policies are already yielding results in several flagship initiatives, including the Safe Road Intelligent System with e-ticketing, the Border Control System with e-gates at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, the Electronic Identification Card Project, and the National Health Records Management System.
Phillips also underscored the importance of equipping public servants with the necessary skills and tools to defend against cyber threats, stating that seamless, secure, and efficient access to government services is vital for national competitiveness in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The NDMA’s role in organizing the Cybersecurity Fair was described as a critical step in raising awareness and building capacity within the public sector.
Regional and international collaboration is also central to the government’s approach. Guyana is working with partners such as CARICOM and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to conduct sector gap analyses and digital readiness assessments, ensuring that the nation’s digital future is both inclusive and resilient.
The Prime Minister called for a cohesive, whole-of-society approach to cybersecurity, urging all sectors – including the private sector, civil society, and academia – to work together to secure the country’s digital revolution. He concluded with a vision of a smarter, safer, and more connected Guyana, where every citizen can confidently access and benefit from the opportunities of a modern digital society.
