Dr. Levius has presented what has been characterized as a “hard-hitting exposé,” revealing the individuals, organizations, and strategies behind a malicious initiative aimed at undermining Guyana’s sovereignty over the Essequibo Region.
In a press release from the Department of Public Information (DPI), it was noted that the NDI utilized high-definition visuals and intelligence to illustrate the tactics employed, which included disinformation campaigns, ransomware attacks, and phishing schemes designed to destabilize key institutions.
“Let there be no doubt—Guyana is fully aware of the situation, and we are not without defenses,” Dr. Levius emphasized, highlighting the nation’s advanced countermeasures.
Details regarding the individuals and organizations implicated in the campaign were not disclosed by Dr. Levius.
In a related event, the Cybersecurity Workshop attracted various leaders from the country’s infrastructure sectors, who discussed the pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in Guyana.
The workshop commenced with a powerful address from NDI Director Dr. Randolph Persaud, who articulated a bold vision for the institute’s strategic mission, positioning it as a pivotal force in the defense framework of Guyana.
“The National Defence Institute is not merely an organization; it is the foundation of our nation’s resilience against emerging threats,” Dr. Persaud asserted, setting the stage for a day filled with significant discussions and actionable insights.
A notable highlight of the event was the presentation by Colonel Sheldon Howell, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the National Defence Institute (NDI) and Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).
Colonel Howell offered valuable perspectives on the policy, execution, and governance of national cybersecurity. Drawing from his vast experience, he underscored the necessity for a unified national strategy to address cyber threats and emphasized the essential role of public-private partnerships in establishing a robust digital infrastructure. His practical approach provided attendees with a definitive framework for converting policy into actionable steps.
Mr. Kester Hutson, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), addressed the significance of cybersecurity for the private sector in Guyana. He remarked, “As the fastest-growing economy in the world, Guyana must take the lead in cybersecurity innovation to safeguard its economic future.”
Steven A. Williams, a prominent expert in cybersecurity and data privacy within the Caribbean, delivered the keynote address and facilitated an interactive tabletop simulation. As the Executive Director of Sunisle Technology Solutions, Williams orchestrated a dynamic exercise that simulated a ransomware attack on the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. This simulation actively involved participants in crisis management and decision-making, illustrating the tangible consequences of cybersecurity incidents.
Furthermore, Muriana McPherson, the Director of Cybersecurity at the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), delivered a presentation on the formulation and oversight of government policies. She guided attendees through the process of reporting cybersecurity incidents to the NDMA and highlighted various tools and resources accessible via the NDMA website, which include guides for incident reporting, best practices for threat management, and information on the cybersecurity response network.
Christopher Lawrence, an Information Security Expert based in Guyana, concluded the session with a discussion on Corporate Security Best Practices, focusing on practical measures that CEOs can implement to strengthen their organizations against cyber threats. The workshop emphasized the NDI’s dedication to cultivating a strong cybersecurity culture among all levels of leadership in Guyana. By providing CEOs with essential tools and strategies to combat contemporary threats, the institute reinforces Guyana’s position as a regional frontrunner in digital defense and resilience. (DPI)
