The Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing digital resilience across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, underscoring the importance of coordinated regional action, strong spectrum governance and continued investment in technical capacity.

The Authority’s position was highlighted during the 31st Caribbean Network Operators Group (CaribNOG) Forum, held April 14–16, 2026, in Kingston, where regional and international stakeholders convened to address the future of the Caribbean’s digital infrastructure under the theme ‘The Resilient Archipelago: Strengthening the Caribbean’s Digital Core’. Speaking during the Women in CaribNOG session, Managing Director of the SMA, Dr Maria Myers-Hamilton, emphasised that building resilient digital systems requires more than infrastructure; it demands intentional collaboration, forward-looking leadership, and sustained investment in people and institutions.

Dr Myers-Hamilton noted, “Digital resilience in the Caribbean is not just about technology. It is about how we work together as a region. Our networks, our systems, and even our spectrum environments are interconnected. Strengthening resilience means strengthening collaboration, building technical capacity, and ensuring that we are managing our resources in a way that supports long-term sustainability and growth.”

Dr Myers-Hamilton further noted that effective spectrum management remains central to this effort, describing it as a strategic enabler of connectivity, public safety, and economic development. As demand for digital services continues to grow, particularly with the expansion of mobile networks, AI, and emerging technologies, the need for coordinated and forward-looking spectrum management has become increasingly critical.

The SMA continues to play an active role in regional and international forums to ensure that Jamaica’s interests are represented while contributing to collective solutions for shared challenges. In a region where connectivity does not stop at national borders, decisions made in one jurisdiction can directly impact another, reinforcing the need for alignment and cooperation across the Caribbean.

Through its ongoing work, the Authority is focused on strengthening Jamaica’s digital infrastructure by modernising spectrum frameworks, supporting more reliable networks, and enabling innovation. This includes ensuring that spectrum is efficiently allocated and managed to support critical sectors such as telecommunications, aviation, maritime services, and emergency response systems.

The SMA also continues to invest in building local and regional technical capacity, recognising that resilient systems depend not only on infrastructure, but on skilled professionals who can design, manage, and secure them. Initiatives that support training, knowledge-sharing, and greater participation, particularly among women in ICT remain a key priority.

Participation in platforms such as CaribNOG provides an important opportunity to advance these priorities, bringing together engineers, regulators, and policymakers to share expertise, address emerging risks, and strengthen the region’s collective digital capabilities.

As the Caribbean navigates increasing digital demand and evolving technological landscapes, the SMA remains committed to ensuring that Jamaica and the region are not only prepared, but positioned to lead in building a secure, resilient, and inclusive digital future.

The Spectrum Management Authority is responsible for the planning, management, and regulation of Jamaica’s radio frequency spectrum. The Authority plays a critical role in enabling connectivity, supporting national development, and ensuring the efficient use of spectrum as a strategic national resource.