Prime Minister Philip Davis of The Bahamas delivered a compelling keynote address at CANTO’s 39th annual Conference and Tradeshow Exhibition, sponsored by C&W Communications.

He called for Caribbean leaders to unite in leveraging digital innovation for regional progress.

Davis began by asking for a moment of solidarity following Hurricane Beryl’s destruction in Grenada, Barbados, St. Vincent, the Windward Islands, and Jamaica.

Several delegates from the affected countries were unable to attend as they continued to work through restoration efforts.

Davis recalled his country’s experience noting, “The Bahamas remembers [Hurricane] Dorian’s fury all too well. Our hearts and prayers go out to our Caribbean brothers and sisters, and may those affected find strength and may the coming months be calmer than forecasts predict.”

The prime minister highlighted the region’s technological evolution, citing The Bahamas’ implementation of e-government platforms for citizen services, and the introduction of its Sand Dollar e-currency. He stressed the importance of digital skills education to ensure widespread technological literacy and prevent marginalisation.

PM Davis also emphasised many challenges facing the region. He noted that education and training in digital skills were critical in ensuring people across the Caribbean are not left behind.

“It is clear that technology is a powerful tool for progress and economic growth, however, the true potential of this tool can only be realised if our citizens are equipped with the knowledge and skills to use it effectively. The biggest missed opportunity we face is having advanced technology at our disposal but lacking the widespread literacy to leverage it fully,” Davis continued. 

Addressing the transformative power of technology, PM Davis said: “Technology is not merely a tool for economic growth, it is a powerful catalyst for social change. Our focus should be on how these innovations can enhance the quality of life for our citizens, bridging the gaps and opening opportunities that were previously unimaginable.”

C&W Communications through its charitable foundation, the CWCF has launched its JUMP social assistance programme in response to this. Currently, the JUMP programme, launched in Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, and St. Lucia provides opportunities to scores of families who would not ordinarily be able to internet access. 

Through a public-private partnership with the Cable & Wireless Charitable Foundation and governments in the region, the most vulnerable customers are able to benefit from subsidised internet access, a free laptop and eight weeks of digital skills training for the entire household. The JUMP programme is set to be officially launched in August in The Bahamas.

The address concluded with the prime minister congratulating CANTO on its 39th birthday, officially announcing The Bahamas as the host for CANTO’s 40th Conference in 2025, marking a significant milestone for the organisation and the region’s commitment to digital advancement. 

Over 600 persons are attending the annual tradeshow and exhibition which runs from July 7-10 at the JW Marriott Hotel in Miami, Florida. C&W Communications once again serves as headline sponsor for the event.