NDMA Hosts Cybersecurity Fair for Government Employees, Reinforces National Commitment to Securing Guyana’s Digital Future.
The National Data Management Authority (NDMA) hosted its Government Employees Cybersecurity Fair under the theme “Securing Guyana’s Digital Future: Hands-On Tools and Techniques for Government Cybersecurity.” The event, part of the Government’s broader digital transformation agenda, brought together public servants from across ministries and agencies for a day of interactive sessions focused on cybersecurity awareness, practical tools, and strategic collaboration.
Delivering the feature address, Hon. Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips emphasised the central role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the country’s future and acknowledged the importance of preparing public sector employees for an evolving digital landscape.
Prime Minister Phillips also underscored the importance of digital safety in national development and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive and secure technology access.
“The government of Guyana has long realised that Information and Communication Technology is not an afterthought, it is a cornerstone of national development,” the Prime Minister said. “We are ensuring that every citizen, whether in Georgetown, along the coast, deep in the hinterland, or the most remote regions, has access to the opportunities of a connected society,” the Prime Minister noted.
The Prime Minister highlighted several ongoing initiatives, such as the expansion of e-services and Guyana’s Digital Readiness Assessment, while noting the risks that come with digital transformation.
“To remain competitive in a rapidly evolving world, our citizens must be able to access government services seamlessly, securely, and efficiently. That is why we continue to expand our portfolio of e-services, reducing bureaucracy and making interaction with government easier and more convenient.”
Addressing the challenges accompanying digital transformation, he remarked: “Recognising this, the Government of Guyana released 43 cybersecurity policies, standards, and guidelines. This initiative was a major step towards strengthening the security posture of all government agencies. These measures are now being implemented across ministries and agencies, reinforcing our commitment to protecting national data, critical systems, and the personal information of our citizens.”
The Prime Minister also emphasised regional collaboration. He particularly highlighted the recent collaboration with the CARICOM Secretariat to support the Regional ICT Sector Gap Analysis. This initiative, he disclosed, is paving the way for the realisation of a Single ICT Space, which will revolutionise the region’s digital economy and support the CARICOM Single Market and Economy.
The Prime Minister also referenced the importance of collaboration in Guyana’s digital advancement, noting that the government continues to partner with ministries, agencies, and international stakeholders to protect critical national infrastructure and digital public assets.
Deputy General Manager of Operations at NDMA, Mr. Orson Smith, who holds over 25 years of experience in the ICT sector, underscored the significance of cybersecurity in public service delivery and the need to empower government employees with the right tools and training.
“We are living in an increasingly interconnected world where threats to digital systems are growing at an unprecedented pace,” Mr. Smith stated. “Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical necessity; it is a cornerstone of national security and economic development. It is a shared responsibility.”
Mr. Smith encouraged participants to take full advantage of the fair’s offerings, from expert-led workshops to networking opportunities, and expressed NDMA’s continued commitment to supporting the government’s digital goals.
“Let us use this platform to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and work together to protect Guyana’s digital future,” he added.
Smith further noted that events like these provide an essential platform to exchange ideas, learn from experts, and build lasting partnerships. “Together, we can secure our digital evolution, and set an example for the region to follow,” he charged the participants.
The Cybersecurity Fair featured live tool demonstrations, expert-led sessions, and networking opportunities, offering a rare opportunity for government ICT professionals to directly engage with evolving cybersecurity solutions. The event also served as a platform for discussing practical steps toward improving national digital resilience and cultivating a cyber-aware public service workforce.
This Cybersecurity Fair marked another milestone in NDMA’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital literacy, improve public sector resilience, and empower government workers to play an active role in Guyana’s transformation into a modern, secure, and connected nation.
As Guyana accelerates its digital transformation, initiatives like the Cybersecurity Fair represent the government’s continued investment in people, systems, and secure infrastructure, ensuring that the country remains at the forefront of regional ICT development.
