The Government of Jamaica is preparing to strengthen its cybersecurity defenses by setting up a cyber incident response team and a security operations centre. Before moving ahead, it wants to assess whether enough expertise is available in the private sector to support the project.
The newly formed Information and Communications Technology Authority, known as JAMICTA, has issued a request for information (RFI). This request aims to find out how local and international companies could provide the services needed, according to a tender document. Companies have until July 4 to submit their responses.
Based on the feedback, the government may later release a formal request for proposals (RFP). Officials have not yet responded to questions about the project.
Jamaica faces more than 43 million cyberattacks each year. While most attacks are blocked, a single breach could cause serious disruption. With cyber threats growing in size and complexity worldwide, Jamaica’s planned investment marks a major step in protecting its digital systems and rebuilding public trust in online government services.
JAMICTA is leading this effort as part of the country’s broader national digital security plan. The new cybersecurity unit will focus on defending Jamaica’s growing digital infrastructure.
JAMICTA started operations in April 2025. It was formed under the ICT Authority Act of 2019 through the merger of eGov Jamaica Limited and the Office of the Chief Information Officer. The goal of this new authority is to streamline government ICT services, reduce costs, and improve public service delivery.
“Despite ongoing efforts, the Government of Jamaica faces persistent capacity challenges in protecting its digital infrastructure,” JAMICTA said in its tender document. This is mainly because the country lacks a central, coordinated system for cybersecurity monitoring and response.
The planned unit will focus on areas like threat intelligence, incident triage, advisory services, and global coordination. It will follow best-practice frameworks such as ISO 27035 and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
“These initiatives aim to deliver proactive monitoring, rapid incident response, and better coordination across ministries, departments, agencies, and critical national infrastructure,” JAMICTA said.
The new team will provide round-the-clock technical monitoring and quick response capabilities.
