A high-level matchmaking event aimed at connecting stakeholders, development
partners, and the private sector to deliver concrete commitments for digital
connectivity projects in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) was held during the
SIDS4 conference hosted in St. John’s, Antigua.
The event marked a significant initiative focused on enhancing digital connectivity
in SIDS, bringing together various stakeholders, including governments,
international organizations, private sector entities, and civil society, to collaborate
on projects and initiatives aimed at improving access to digital technologies and
services in SIDS.
The distinguished high-level panel and discussants included the H.E. Melford
Nicholas, Minister of Information, Communication Technologies (ICTs), Utilities,
and Energy of Antigua and Barbuda, H.E. Naadir Hassan, Minister of Finance,
National Planning and Trade, Republic of Seychelles, Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh,
UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, Mr. Rodney Taylor,
Secretary-General, Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), Ms. Kimberly
Brown, Head of Mobile for Humanitarian Innovation, GSMA, and Ms. Hermina
Johnny, Founder, Aspire Artemis Foundation.
The meeting was expertly moderated by Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director
of the Telecommunication Development Bureau at ITU, who engaged both
panelists and discussants on the status of ICTs in their respective territories,
exploring their current situations, historical contexts, and future aspirations.
Building on ITU’s core mandate and work in SIDS, the high-level session
underscored the critical importance of universal and meaningful connectivity for
social and economic development, as well as the achievement of the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). The event also served as a platform to showcase
ITU’s commitment and concrete initiatives to support SIDS in their connectivity
journey.
Prominent policymakers and practitioners shared their experiences, challenges, and
solutions to accelerate progress towards universal and meaningful connectivity,
particularly in the context of SIDS. During the interactive discussion, it was
emphasized that ITU is actively working to connect pledge makers and
development partners with SIDS stakeholders to deliver concrete commitments,
shape specific projects, and support countries and communities.
The focus was on mobilizing collective action and resources to accelerate progress
towards achieving universal and meaningful digital connectivity in SIDS, thereby
contributing to the socio-economic development and sustainable growth of these
island nations.
