Julian Belgrave, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) country representative, has said the Connected Arima initiative is the first of its kind in the West Indies and possibly Central America. He said there was interest in replicating the initiative in other Caribbean countries.
Belgrave was addressing over 50 Arima businessmen at a consultation with the Arima local economic development unit and the office of the MP, Pennelope Beckles-Robinson, the Arima Borough Corporation and the IDB.
“This important initiative has the potential to transform businesses, individuals and general lives in Arima for the better. I see this as a part of the broader urban regeneration of Arima.
“This is a very innovative intervention, as the concept of a smart city is the first of its kind in TT and hopefully the first of many. It’s the first in the Caribbean, and you’re ahead of the curve. This type of innovation is not often seen in the Caribbean space, showcasing opportunities for replication in other jurisdictions. I hope this is seen as something that can be replicated in TT and throughout the Caribbean.”
Corporation CEO Georgianna Mc Farlane said the initiative was a pilot project designed to digitise the open spaces in the borough and give access to burgesses and visitors to Arima, allowing access to technology seamlessly throughout the borough.
“The Connected Arima initiative will not only provide the visual platform for advertising your businesses, but it will also enhance citizen experience and satisfaction, expand digital literacy and inclusiveness and offer improved opportunities to create new, innovative businesses and services."
She said the project was conceptualised by Beckles-Robinson and funded by the IDB.
Beckles-Robinson said she conceptualised the project after her many experiences of using technology when she was TT’s ambassador to the UN. She said she wanted to make it easier for people to access technology so they could work on the go, do banking online, hold meetings virtually and other activities.
[caption id="attachment_1126065" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Former Arima mayor George Hadeed gives his opinion of the Arima Connect Initiative at the temporary Office of the Mayor, St Joseph Street, Arima on November 27. - Photo by Paula Lindo[/caption]
Arima mayor Balliram Maharaj said the ability to adapt and harness technology was crucial, whether it was for paying bills, fighting crime or buying goods and services.
“The Connect Arima project represents not just a shift in how we manage information, but a commitment to enhancing services, improving accessibility and ensuring we remain in the forefront of the digital economy.
“The project provides high-speed internet to the burgesses of Arima, allowing us to conduct digital payments and online business transactions. Commuters will be able to stay connected to the internet and communicate with their friends and family, regardless of their financial situation and location. Free public WiFi also provides convenience for those who need to wo
