BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Caribbean Regional eGovernment Strategy 2009 to 2012 is one step closer to fruition with today’s (June 23) commencement of the third Strategy Planning Meeting.
Technology experts and policy advisors from around the Caribbean have assembled at the Marriott Resort and Royal Beach Casino for the Caribbean Centre for Development Administration (CARICAD)-facilitated two-day session. The regional agency has been the lead institution behind the strategy, which aims to provide a framework for the computerisation of government services throughout the Caribbean.
Strategy development began in November 2008 with an assessment of the readiness of Caribbean countries to introduce eGovernment activities within their societies. At the first workshop in February, the results of this assessment, along with a Strength-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) analysis of the current state of eGovernment, were considered by regional experts. April’s meeting focused on identifying ultimate and immediate outcomes, outputs and initiatives of the eGovernment strategy.
According to a communiqué released by CARICAD, the objective of the third and final workshop is “to complete the development of the building blocks by finalising the strategic initiatives and outputs that will be delivered over the period, and the process for the strategy implementation including governance, monitoring and measurement, and funding”.
CARICAD eGovernment Advisor Adam Montserin revealed that the strategy is set to be launched in August and informed that a round of consultations would be held with key stakeholders prior to its implementation.
“CARICAD intends to meet with policymakers in CARICOM member states to ensure that anticipated outcomes reflect national priorities and development plans. We also plan to consult with key regional institutions to ensure there is a synchronised approach to eGovernment development. At the same time, we will engage with donor agencies, development partners and international financial institutions to resource the strategy,” said Montserin.
The Advisor highlighted the “critical role” played by the Federation in strategy development, noting “this drive and commitment” provided an excellent example of the dedication needed to take the region forward. The Hon. Sam Condor, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Information Technology, thanked Montserin for his compliment and pointed to the government’s technological achievements, including the establishment of the National ICT Centre, the creation of a government website (www.gov.kn) and the introduction of a hospital information system at the Joseph N. France General Hospital.
