FIJI is actively working to ensure it establishes the National Computer Emergency Response Team (Fiji CERT) while it finalises the National Cybersecurity Strategy.
Fiji CERT will serve as a vital function within Government and will act as ‘digital first responders’ to cyber incidents.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Communications Manoa Kamikamica said once set up, the Fiji CERT would be able to deal with nationally significant cyber incidents from the outset.
“We believe that the creation of the Fiji CERT will not only improve our incident response capabilities, but will also foster collaboration between government agencies, private sector partners, and international allies, ensuring a unified approach to safeguarding our digital infrastructure,” Mr Kamikamica said while officially opening the Trend Micro World Tour 2025 at the GPH in Suva last Friday.
He said the Government acknowledged it must create an enabling environment for the people and businesses, and it was working on three national frameworks to ensure policies and legislation reflected the needs of the digital economy it envisaged.
The three frameworks include a Privacy and Personal Data Protection Policy, National Cloud Policy and National AI Policy.
Mr Kamikamica said the Privacy and Personal Data Protection Policy would provide a framework through which personal date of every Fijian could be protected.
He said following the development of this policy, the Government would commence work on the respective legislation.
The DPM said they were also studying the country’s present cloud landscape.
“Once this study is complete, we will use it as a foundation to develop our National Cloud Policy. This policy would enable us to utilise cloud technology more effectively and responsibly.
“Noting the emergence of artificial intelligence in our everyday lives and its immense potential for good, one of our key priorities, which is also reflected in the National Digital Strategy, is the development of our National AI Policy, which we hope to deliver within the next two years.”
Last year, Fiji acceded to the Budapest Convention, which represents the first global treaty focused on cybercrime and electronic evidence, offering a framework for countries to define cyber-related offences as crimes, implement investigative procedures, and enhance international cooperation.
“As we look to the future, let us remember that our digital ambitions are only possible when fortified by a strong foundation of cyber security and resilience.
“Let us harness digital transformation so we can bridge the digital divide and provide new opportunities for Fijians.”
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated May 26, 2025
