The Ministry of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), Utilities and Energy, in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), has inaugurated a two-day workshop at the Trade Winds Hotel in Antigua and Barbuda. This event, focused on advancing digital financial services (DFS), aims to foster financial inclusion and digital transformation across the nation. The workshop has convened a diverse array of stakeholders, including government officials, technology experts, and financial institution representatives, to explore innovative strategies for leveraging digital platforms to enhance financial accessibility. Hon. Melford Nicholas, Minister of ICTs, inaugurated the event by underscoring the urgent need for digital innovation in both the public and private sectors. Cleveland Thomas, the ITU representative, highlighted the pivotal role of digital assets in promoting financial inclusion, particularly through initiatives like the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s D-Cash program. He emphasized that while over 2 billion adults globally remain unbanked, 1.6 billion possess mobile phones, presenting a unique opportunity to integrate them into the formal economy and drive economic growth. The workshop will delve into critical areas such as the formation of a National DFS Security Task Force, the dissemination of security standards, and a thorough evaluation of past initiatives aimed at strengthening the DFS ecosystem. Participants will collaborate to implement best practices and secure mobile payment systems. Minister Nicholas stressed the importance of adapting swiftly to the evolving digital landscape, especially in response to growing public demand. This workshop marks a significant milestone in creating an inclusive financial environment that supports vulnerable populations and bolsters regional economic development.
Ministry of ICTs and ITU Launch Two-Day Workshop to Advance Digital Financial Services in Antigua and Barbuda
