Apia, SAMOA – The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is addressing the fast-growing risks linked to Artificial Intelligence (AI), including cyberattacks, fraud, and misinformation.

A two-day technical workshop was held in Apia on 13–14 November 2025, bringing together experts, government agencies, and regional partners to build awareness, share knowledge, and develop practical strategies for AI trust and safety.

"The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) is grateful for this productive and engaging exchange of ideas that will guide Samoa towards a safer, more resilient, and trustworthy digital environment driven by responsible Artificial Intelligence," said Leasoiloafaleupolu Ronnie Aiolupotea, Acting CEO, MCIT.

As AI continues to shape economic growth and public service delivery, collaboration will be crucial to ensure that the benefits of AI innovation are realized safely, inclusively, and sustainably.

“To ensure AI benefits everyone, we take a people-first approach, putting human rights, human equity, and data privacy at the centre. But how do we ensure safe, secure, ethical and responsible AI development and adoption when we are not at the centre of the development of that technology? That’s the questions we aim to address, and how we pave the way for sustainable opportunities with AI for everyone, ensuring that no one is left behind in light of this reality. It starts with us and with our work on AI trust and safety,” said Aliona Niculita, Resident Representative, MCIT.

The workshop focused on understanding emerging AI risks and their impact on e-commerce, payment systems, and digital public infrastructure. It also discussed collaborative planning to develop AI assurance frameworks, strengthen authentication and data provenance, and identify national and regional priorities.

The workshop aimed to improve understanding of AI-related threats, draft action plans to safeguard digital systems, and identify clear priorities for continued collaboration between MCIT, UNDP, and partners.

MCIT and UNDP remain committed to ensuring Samoa is prepared for the opportunities and challenges of an AI-driven future.

“Most of the solutions coming out of the global north do not apply to this side of the world. It is useful to consider the global landscape, but it is more important to look at the national landscape. I am here to help you make informed choices and better understand what it means for your system to embrace AI technology that centers people," said Jennifer Louie, AI Trust, Safety and Security Expert, UNDP.