Prime Minister Mark Phillips on Thursday emphasised the importance of cybersecurity and reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and digital assets.
Delivering the keynote address at the inaugural Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Technology Conference, Phillips said that as Guyana navigates rapid technological advancement and digitisation, it is critical it keeps up with new challenges, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity.
Addressing the topic of ‘Cybersecurity and Guyana’s Digital Future’, the Prime Minister’s Office press release said that Phillips acknowledged that with increased interconnectedness within Industry 4.0 (referring to the current era of connectivity, advanced analytics, automation, and advanced-manufacturing technology), the probability of cyber threats becomes amplified making robust cybersecurity measures necessary.
“This increase in connectivity, access to information, and endless opportunities for digital innovation, is crucial to implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect data, maintain operational integrity, and ensure the safety and privacy of individuals and organisations in this new era of technological innovation,” Phillips remarked.
One of Government’s top priorities, he said, is ensuring the safety and security of its citizens in the cyber realm while fortifying the nation’s digital future. “As we gather here to discuss the profound implications of Industry 4.0 and the critical role of cybersecurity, I wish to underscore government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring efficient cybersecurity measures are in place for the safety and security of all Guyanese.” To this end, Phillips said that as digital transformation occurs, it should be accompanied by solid commitments to cybersecurity to realise the full benefits while at the same time minimize all risks.
Phillips noted the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures in the face of increased connectivity and digital innovation. “We are now also operating in a landscape that involves collecting and analysing vast amounts of data, including sensitive information. Data privacy is therefore essential, as breaches can have legal and financial repercussions. Compliance with data protection regulations also becomes critical.” In alignment with this vision, he noted measures by the administration through transformative legislation, including the Data Protection Bill 2023 and the Digital Identity Card Bill 2023 which, he explained, aims to protect personal data and privacy rights while empowering citizens to navigate the digital space.
Phillips also discussed the Government’s ICT Master Plan 2030, a strategic initiative to ensure Guyana operates on an efficient digital platform while addressing critical issues such as cybercrime, healthcare management, education delivery, and various sectors. He emphasised that these initiatives are tangible manifestation of the Government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for widespread ICT adoption and eliminating the digital divide. “Our government acknowledges the significance of ICTs in shaping a future-oriented economy and advancing national development. ICTs are the driving force for economic and social empowerment. We are committed to constructing the essential infrastructure and fostering a conducive environment for its widespread adoption throughout Guyana.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility and called upon all stakeholders to proactively enhance online security and collaborate in building a more secure and resilient digital environment. The Prime Minister commended the GMSA for organising the conference, while noting that “cybersecurity is not beyond any of us and is not limited to any single entity”. The one-day conference, took place at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre under the theme “Fortifying Industry 4.0,” which is a platform for discussing all facets of Industry 4.0 and the indispensable role of cybersecurity.
