$2.3 billion for ICT innovation

-ICT will help develop other sectors

-Prime Minister Phillips

Prime Minister Hon. Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips says while there have been many strides in telecommunications and innovation in Guyana, more development is needed.  To this end, he said the Government has allocated over $2 billion for investment in the sector.

In his contribution to the Budget debate on Monday, Prime Minister Phillips the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector needs to be strengthened to benefit the society.

“Our PPP/C Government plans to ensure that all necessary aspects within this industry are strengthened to immediately build toward this goal and has thus set aside an estimated total of $2.3 billion for the telecommunications and innovation sector.”

The Prime Minister said ICT would also help to advance other sectors such as health, education, security, infrastructure, agriculture and social development.

PM Phillips also outlined other telecommunication and innovation areas for development including National Data Management Authority (NDMA). An estimated $2 billion has been set aside for this area to expand and implement new network and communication infrastructure to connect Government Ministries and Agencies countrywide. The Industry and Innovation Unit has been given an allocation of $52.4 million, to plan, coordinate and implement a number of projects and initiatives that will support policy objectives of the Government.  

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Phillips said he was proud of the $383.1 billion budget because it showcases the Government’s immense passion and concern for the wellbeing and upliftment of all Guyanese.  The Budget is the Administration’s first full-year package and the largest ever presented in the country.

“Permit me to remind you Mr. Speaker that this Budget is in keeping with our Government’s vision of making Guyana a truly prosperous country, and providing benefits to all our citizens while laying the foundation that projects sustainable, long-term growth.”

The Prime Minister said Government stands proud to have been able to successfully achieve this Budget, just on the heels of the 2020 Emergency Budget, which it prepared to start revitalising the country’s economy.

He said Guyana had faced a dire economic downturn, originating from the previous five years of gross incompetence and poor leadership under the APNU/AFC Administration.