Guyana has signalled its readiness to partner with Spanish satellite operator Hispasat, leveraging cutting-edge space technology to bolster data sovereignty and enhance digital connectivity across the country. The initiative forms part of a broader regional effort to bridge the digital divide in the Caribbean.
The technology offered by HISPASAT is important for critical sectors, including public administration, banking, national security, and election management.
“Guyana stands ready to engage in meaningful partnerships that drive progress and uplift communities through innovation and technology,” said Brigadier (Retd) Mark Phillips said Thursday at the first meeting that will lead to the design of a project for member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips
The Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), of which Guyana is a founding member, and HISPASAT signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Barbados on February 25. The MoU aims to facilitate collaborations to expand satellite connectivity across CARICOM member states, with the ultimate goal of providing a high-tech satellite infrastructure under the project, which is named CONDOSAT (CARISAT).
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips described the agreement as “a pivotal step towards closing the digital gap, ensuring that all have equitable access to technology” and underscored Guyana’s commitment to the project.
Strengthening Digital Sovereignty
HISPASAT, a leader in satellite telecommunications, offers broadband and satellite connectivity solutions, including internet access, mobility, and the extension of cellular networks. The company is also a key player in the dissemination of audiovisual content in Spanish and Portuguese, as well as the management of digital platforms.
Pedro Duque, President of HISPASAT, noted that the company’s proposal aligns with the region’s need for secure and sovereign digital infrastructure.
“We will use the highest performance satellite technology existing,” he stated.
“We will also include ground infrastructure that will be located as needed within the CARICOM area to ensure data integrity in all cases.”
Pedro Duque, President of HISPASAT (Photo: The Daily Television)
The company is ready to support countries immediately, using systems it already has in the Caribbean.
The project has the support of the European Union (EU).
The has reinforced its commitment to supporting digital transformation in Guyana. In September 2024, Guyana became the 22nd country to join the EU-LAC Digital Alliance, which promotes cooperation on digital policy, data governance, internet security, and emerging technologies.
“This technology will really allow Guyana and CARICOM to participate in satellite technology -and to the latest state-of-the art that is there.
“And what I would like to stress is that this will provide them with sovereignty over their own digital connection,” said Rene van Nes, EU Ambassador to Guyana.
Van Nes underscored the EU’s approach through the Global Gateway initiative, which seeks to leverage private sector investments to promote sustainable development and said the collaboration between the Caribbean and HISPASAT represents is an example of how the Global Gateway should function.
Rodney Taylor, Secretary-General of the CTU, highlighted the strategic benefits of sovereign satellite infrastructure that the project with HISPASAT offers.
He said the issue of enhanced national security is important because countries would not have to rely on private, commercial agreements for critical matters of national security.
“It gives a country, and it gives CARICOM, independence. It increases our sovereignty and independence; it gives us control of our data and it gives us strategic autonomy.
Non-Resident Spanish Ambassador to Guyana, Cristina Perez, hailed the agreement as a milestone for digital transformation in the Caribbean. She noted that it addresses connectivity challenges in Guyana and the wider region, promoting digital inclusion, institutional strengthening, and economic development.
Perez added that the project aligns with Spain’s support for CARICOM.
“Reliable, secure and sovereign connectivity is essential in public administration, health and education. Digititalisaton is also a determining factor for technological sovereignty, guaranteeing autonomy of communications,” she stated.
Guyana’s involvement in CONDOSAT is expected to catalyse its ongoing digital transformation efforts.
Discussions are already underway regarding Guyana’s potential membership in RedCLARA, Latin America’s research and education network, to foster academic partnerships and expand access to advanced digital tools.
Prime Minister Phillips noted that Guyana has long recognised the transformative potential of satellite technology, particularly for underserved communities.
He said Guyana remains committed to open dialogue, regional collaboration, and advancing technological inclusion.
As the CONDOSAT project progresses, stakeholders anticipate that the high-tech satellite infrastructure will empower communities, expand economic opportunities, and bolster digital sovereignty across the Caribbean.
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