Guyana participates in major initiative aimed at enhancing satellite connectivity across C’bean

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering commitment to advancing digital transformation across the Caribbean, emphasising the pivotal role of regional partnerships in bridging the digital divide.

The Prime Minister, who is performing the functions of President, made these remarks at the first roundtable meeting for Project CONDOSAT (CARISAT), a major regional initiative aimed at enhancing satellite connectivity within CARICOM Member States.

Spearheaded by the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) in collaboration with Hispasat, a leading Spanish satellite telecommunications operator, Project CONDOSAT (CARISAT) represents a significant step towards strengthening regional digital infrastructure. The initiative seeks to expand broadband access, enhance digital sovereignty, and promote greater connectivity, particularly for remote and underserved communities across the Caribbean.

The Prime Minister lauded the project as a transformative step in bridging the region’s digital divide and fostering economic and social development through technological inclusion.

“This initiative represents a monumental milestone in our collective mission to bridge the digital divide and enhance connectivity across the Caribbean. Guyana has long recognised the transformative potential of satellite technology in reaching underserved communities, and we remain fully committed to open dialogue, regional collaboration, and advancing technological inclusion for all.”

The launch of the project follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the CTU and Hispasat, witnessed by His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali. Through this agreement, Hispasat has committed to expanding satellite connectivity across CARICOM member states, laying the groundwork for enhanced digital access and regional resilience.

According to the Prime Minister, Project CONDOSAT (CARISAT) aims to utilise satellite technology to improve broadband access, bolster digital sovereignty, and support critical public services, including education, healthcare, and commerce. The initiative will enable more Caribbean citizens, regardless of geography, to participate in the digital economy and benefit from online resources.

The Prime Minister highlighted Guyana’s ongoing efforts in digital transformation under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration since 2020.

He noted that the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) has made significant strides in expanding digital connectivity, with 225 remote communities already connected under the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Internet project. To date, the project has brought high-speed internet to over 128,000 residents, with hinterland bandwidth increasing 300-fold compared to 2020. Additionally, public Wi-Fi access has expanded to over 1,000 locations, further enhancing access to digital resources and e-services.

He noted too that the Government has also extended Guyana’s fibre-optic network from 187 km in 2020 to 700 km in 2024 across six regions. This infrastructure supports key public institutions such as schools, health centres, and police stations, significantly improving service delivery in essential sectors.

Moreover, through the ICT Access and eServices for Hinterland, Poor, and Remote Communities Project—implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy—153 ICT hubs have been established. Of these, 1,091 locations now provide free public Wi-Fi, with 126 sites fully operational in hinterland areas, powered by sustainable energy solutions.
“Reliable and accessible internet service is essential for education, healthcare, commerce, and governance. Without it, communities—particularly those in remote and underserved regions—remain at a disadvantage. Guyana has worked aggressively to close this gap, and we fully support regional efforts that align with this vision,” the Prime Minister affirmed.

Looking ahead, Prime Minister Phillips outlined Guyana’s connectivity goals for 2025 and beyond. These include connecting the remaining 38 communities under the current initiative, training an additional 10,000 residents in digital literacy—particularly youth, women, and indigenous populations—enhancing e-government services, and fostering ICT-based entrepreneurship through micro-grants and business development initiatives.

Prime Minister Phillips reiterated Guyana’s belief in the power of technology as a tool for regional empowerment, economic growth, and sustainable development. He emphasised that through strong regional partnerships such as the collaboration with the CTU and Hispasat, CARICOM nations can move beyond merely consuming technology to shaping and driving its development.

“No single entity, body, or country can achieve digital transformation in isolation. It is through strong partnerships—such as this one with the CTU—that we will realise our shared vision of a fully connected Caribbean.”