The Caribbean region buzzed with significant developments in information and communication technology (ICT) and broader technology news during the week of October 20-26, 2025. From ambitious national strategies for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and significant budget allocations to critical infrastructure disputes and expanded digital access, the week underscored the region’s accelerating digital transformation.
Trinidad and Tobago: Navigating Digital Budgets and Transformation
Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025-2026 national budget saw substantial allocations towards technology and digital initiatives. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo presented a budget that, while balancing previous government work with new directives, allocated significant funds towards hardware for students and educators, digital government programs, and plans for an electronic ID (e-ID) system. A TTD 23 million grant from the European Union is set to bolster digital transformation efforts, supporting the e-ID, a public data interoperability platform, and the construction of a dedicated government data centre. Despite these investments, the budget also hinted at an “unclear spending strategy” for some tech initiatives, with external factors potentially limiting the scope for new government direction in the tech sector. Nonetheless, the commitment to digital literacy, AI training, and public sector modernization remains a cornerstone of the nation’s forward-looking plans.
Bahamas: Labour Dialogue and Telecommunications Challenges
In the Bahamas, trade unions representing Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) staff engaged in critical discussions with Prime Minister Philip Davis KC. The meetings addressed long-standing grievances concerning management practices, recent staff terminations (which were upheld on appeal), and prevailing working conditions. The unions voiced concerns about BTC allegedly “migrating” its cellular network overseas and employing contract workers in ways perceived as undermining full-time Bahamian staff. While BTC reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue, the situation highlighted ongoing labour relations challenges within the telecommunications sector.
Cayman Islands: Embracing AI and Workforce Upskilling
The Cayman Islands continued to solidify its position as a leader in preparing its workforce for the AI era. The week saw further emphasis on developing short, stackable pathways to AI skills, adapting successful international models to the local context. Initiatives focused on building practical AI literacy, understanding risk management, and acquiring specific skills in areas like computer vision and machine learning. Research from the University College of the Cayman Islands underscored the islands’ potential to leverage AI for educational reform and workforce development, positioning them to benefit from AI’s capacity to reshape rather than replace jobs. The strategy aims to enhance human capability and ensure a skilled workforce ready for higher-order tasks.
Jamaica: Expanding Connectivity and Future Vision
Jamaica saw a significant expansion of digital access with the official launch of a new public Wi-Fi facility at the Kingston Waterfront by the Universal Service Fund (USF). This initiative, part of the broader Connect JA Public Wi-Fi Programme, extends reliable, free internet access across key areas, reinforcing the goal of universal ICT access. In parallel, Prime Minister Andrew Holness reiterated his vision for Jamaica’s future, predicting that robotics and AI would become integral to daily life by 2030. He stressed the importance of upskilling the Jamaican populace to harness these technologies for economic growth and higher-paying jobs, highlighting the establishment of a National AI Lab at the University of Technology as a key step.
Barbados: Uber’s Entry and Assurances of Fair Competition
As ride-hailing giant Uber expanded its operations in Barbados, Prime Minister Mia Mottley addressed concerns from local taxi operators. The Prime Minister announced government measures designed to ensure fair competition, including restrictions on Uber operating from the Bridgetown Port and Grantley Adams International Airport during the upcoming winter season. The move signals a commitment to integrating new technology-driven services while safeguarding the interests of local transport providers.
Belize: BPO Sector Growth and Employment Opportunities
Belize’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector continued its growth, with Halo BPO announcing the hiring of remote sales agents. This move creates new employment opportunities for Belizeans, allowing them to join the digital workforce from home. The positions require specific internet speeds and sales experience, offering competitive pay and bonuses, further integrating Belize into the regional digital economy.
Grenada: Utilities Go Digital
Grenlec, the Grenada Electricity Services Ltd., launched its new online platform, MyAccount.Grenlec.com. This digital portal empowers customers to manage their electricity services more conveniently, offering features like online bill payments, access to billing history, and the ability to update contact details. The launch represents a significant step in enhancing customer experience and promoting greener, more efficient service delivery.
Infrastructure Disputes Continue
In the Cayman Islands, a long-running legal dispute between broadband providers Flow and C3 over cable access and infrastructure sharing remained a point of contention. Flow was reportedly pursuing a court challenge to overturn a regulatory ruling concerning C3’s access to shared fibre optic cables and a cable station. These ongoing legal battles highlight the complexities of infrastructure access and competition within the telecommunications sector.
Conclusion
The week ending October 26, 2025, showcased the dynamic and evolving technology landscape across the Caribbean. The news reflects a strong regional focus on digital transformation, workforce development through AI and tech upskilling, enhanced connectivity, and strategic integration of new services. As nations navigate budget allocations, labour relations, and infrastructure development, the overarching trend points towards a continued embrace of technology as a critical driver for economic growth and societal progress throughout the Caribbean.