MINISTER MAYNARD SAYS ICTs WILL ENABLE THE CARIBBEAN TO DEEPEN REGIONAL INTEGRATION 

Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 1, 2024 (SKNIS): In a bid to strengthen regional unity and collaboration, the Honourable Konris Maynard, Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) for the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, has emphasized the pivotal role ICT will play in fostering deeper regional integration across the Caribbean.

Minister Maynard made this assertion during his keynote address at the opening ceremony of the Caribbean Telecommunication Union Information and Communication Technology (CTU ICT) Week on September 30, 2024, highlighting the theme of this year’s event, ‘Bridging technologies for a sustainable and inclusive future’. The opening ceremony was held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

“In an age where technological advancement is not only shaping but radically transforming our economies, governance structures and societies, the need for sustainable and inclusive government has never been more pressing,” said Minister Maynard. “Sustainability and inclusion are two pillars that must underpin all of our regional efforts as we embrace a digital future.”

Hon. Konris Maynard, Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT)

The minister also addressed the unique challenges faced by small island developing states, particularly the vulnerabilities stemming from climate change. He called for a strategic focus on emerging technologies as a means to bolster economic resilience and safeguard the natural environment, while ensuring that all citizens, regardless of location, social standing, or abilities, are empowered.

“Information and Communication Technology holds immense potential to not just catapult the economic development of the Caribbean region. It is not merely a tool for communication, it is the very infrastructure that will enable us to deepen regional integration, improve government services, promote open government, and deepen our democratic traditions,” Minister Maynard stated.

He further outlined the potential for ICTs to revolutionise Caribbean economies, enabling smarter towns and villages and unlocking new avenues for entrepreneurship and innovation. Additionally, he highlighted how ICTs will facilitate the movement of goods, services, and human and financial capital throughout the region, further uniting Caribbean peoples and promoting regional collaboration in business, social interventions, and policy development.

Minister Maynard concluded by reaffirming the Federation’s commitment to leveraging ICTs as a cornerstone for economic and social progress across the Caribbean.

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