Basseterre, Saint Kitts, October 15, 2026 (SKNIS): The Ministry of Information, Communications, Technology and Posts is strengthening national cybersecurity awareness and technical capacity through a Cybersecurity Seminar being held today (October 15, 2026) at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, with support from the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN) and the Caribbean Network Operators Group (CARIBNOG).
Held under the theme “Securing Our Digital Foundations,” the seminar brings together stakeholders to explore Internet fundamentals, routing security, DNS security, and strategies for strengthening and securing the Federation’s digital infrastructure.
In addressing the opening session of the seminar, Minister of Information, Communications, Technology and Posts, the Honourable Konris Maynard, underscored the importance of embedding security into the nation’s digital transformation.
“If our digital infrastructure is to support the future of our Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, it must be resilient, trustworthy and above all, it must be secure,” Minister Maynard stated.
He highlighted the significance of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Internet Exchange Point (SKNIXP), which enables local Internet traffic to remain within the Federation where possible, improving access to local digital services while reducing reliance on international transit links. He also emphasised the importance of Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) in protecting the integrity and authenticity of Internet communications and safeguarding users against malicious redirection and other cyber threats.
Minister Maynard also announced plans for the CARIBNOG SHIELD Internship Programme, scheduled to commence in 2027. The initiative, which stands for Security Hub for Infrastructure Enhancements and Local Defence, will target young people across the Federation, providing practical cybersecurity training, exposure to modern security tools, mentorship, and opportunities to develop skills in network security and incident response.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications, Technology and Posts, Daryll Lloyd, emphasised that cybersecurity must remain a priority as Caribbean countries embrace the opportunities presented by digital transformation.
“Technology enables us to improve public service delivery, expand access to education, facilitate commerce, strengthen regional cooperation, and create new opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. However, these opportunities come with responsibilities,” Mr. Lloyd said.
He urged participants to engage actively in the sessions, noting that cyber threats, data breaches, online fraud, and attacks on network infrastructure can have serious consequences for small island developing states, affecting essential services, public confidence, and economic stability.
The seminar underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening digital resilience through technical capacity-building, regional collaboration, and the adoption of internationally recognised cybersecurity practices. It also reinforces the shared responsibility of government agencies, businesses, technical professionals, and citizens in protecting the Federation’s digital ecosystem.
-30-
