Senator the Honourable Dominic Smith, Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, has described broadband connectivity as essential infrastructure for national development. He noted that reliable internet access has become as critical as roads, electricity and clean water in today’s digital economy.
Minister Smith was speaking at the launch of new broadband infrastructure in Navet under TATT’s Universal Service Programme, marking another significant step in expanding reliable internet access to underserved communities across the country.
“This investment is about far more than infrastructure. It is about opportunity. No citizen’s future should ever be determined by their postcode,” Minister Smith said.
He emphasized that the project will directly benefit approximately 140 homes. Residents will gain better access to education, healthcare, government services, employment opportunities and digital markets. Entrepreneurs, farmers, fishermen and small businesses will also be better positioned to compete in an increasingly connected economy. Minister Smith noted that World Bank research has consistently demonstrated that greater broadband penetration supports economic growth, job creation and innovation.
He noted that, under the leadership of the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the Government remains committed to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of geographic location, can fully participate in the digital age. Communities such as Tabaquite and Navet are benefiting from targeted investments designed to close the digital divide and expand access to education, economic participation and government services.
Minister Smith said the project forms part of the Ministry’s broader digital transformation agenda, which includes modernising public services, expanding digital infrastructure and strengthening artificial intelligence education. Together, these initiatives create greater opportunities for citizens to participate in Trinidad and Tobago’s growing digital economy.
“The future should never depend on your postcode. It should depend on your potential, your determination and your willingness to seize opportunity,” Minister Smith added.
He also commended the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) for its continued leadership in implementing the Universal Service Programme and expressed his appreciation to the Honourable Sean Sobers, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for Tabaquite, for his collaboration with the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence and TATT in helping to bring this important initiative to the people of Navet. Minister Smith reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that every community has access to the digital infrastructure needed to thrive.
Also in attendance were Cory Belfon, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence; Nariya Baksh, Director, Public Management (MPAAI); Karen Ramkissoon, Director, Public Management (MPAAI); Cris Seecheran, Chairman of the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT); Kurleigh Prescod, Chief Executive Officer of TATT; and Kirk Sookram, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of TATT.
As Trinidad and Tobago accelerates its digital transformation agenda, investments such as the Navet broadband expansion are helping to ensure that geographical location is no barrier to opportunity and that every citizen can participate fully in the digital economy. This initiative represents another important step towards building a more connected, inclusive and digitally empowered nation.