Samoa Embraces Artificial Intelligence for Future Growth
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping societies worldwide, and in 2026, it remains central to global development discussions. As nations seek to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, Samoa is actively exploring how AI can help bridge development gaps, or potentially widen them, depending on how technology is managed and adopted. The Ministry of Communications & Information Technology, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is driving national dialogue on AI trust, safety, and digital sovereignty to ensure technology serves the country's unique needs.
The Dual Promise and Risk of AI
AI offers significant opportunities for Samoa and the Pacific region:
- Innovation and Economic Opportunities: Digital entrepreneurs in Samoa are optimistic that AI will stimulate innovation, create new business models, and expand employment opportunities across sectors including health, education, and public administration.
- Enhanced Public Services: AI-driven solutions can improve learning outcomes, streamline health services, and boost productivity—key priorities for small island developing states facing geographic remoteness and resource constraints.
- Climate and Mobility Solutions: AI is being explored as a tool to address climate risks and high mobility, which are persistent challenges in the Pacific context.
However, these opportunities come with risks:
- Inequality Between Countries: According to UNDP’s recent report, "The Next Great Divergence", countries lacking robust digital infrastructure and skilled workforces risk falling further behind as AI advances.
- Governance and Skills Gaps: Without strong governance frameworks and continued investment in digital skills, the benefits of AI may not be equitably distributed.
Building Samoa’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
A reliable digital foundation is vital for leveraging AI’s potential. Samoa has committed to strengthening its digital public infrastructure (DPI), which is characterised by:
- Interoperable Systems: Ensuring digital platforms can communicate securely and efficiently, with open standards.
- Privacy and Consent: Upholding citizens’ rights through robust privacy protections.
- Public Benefit: Designing systems that serve the entire population, not just specific groups.
Recent developments include the National Digital ID System, which lays the groundwork for secure digital identity and wider digital readiness. The Pathway for the Development of Samoa 2025/26–2030/31 (PDS2) and the Draft National ICT Policy 2025–2030 both prioritise digital transformation, further underlining Samoa’s commitment to inclusive digital growth.
Digital Sovereignty and Local Ownership
Samoa’s policymakers recognise the importance of digital sovereignty—the ability to control and govern the nation’s own data and digital infrastructure. During a 2025 workshop on AI trust and safety, organised by the Ministry of Communications & Information Technology and UNDP, participants raised critical questions:
- How can Samoa maintain ownership of its digital technologies and AI systems?
- What safeguards are necessary to ensure data remains under Samoan control?
This emphasis on sovereignty is reflected in policy discussions that prioritise Fa’aSamoa, ensuring that digitalisation respects and preserves Samoa’s cultural values and traditions. For lawyers and professionals, this focus on local context is essential when advising on data protection, digital contracts, and regulatory compliance.
Actionable Steps for Legal and Professional Communities
For Samoa to fully benefit from AI, practical actions are recommended for government agencies, legal professionals, and organisations:
- Strengthen Digital Skills: Invest in upskilling staff to understand AI applications, risks, and ethical implications.
- Review Legal Frameworks: Ensure existing laws and regulations address AI-related issues such as data protection, privacy, and consent.
- Support DPI Initiatives: Engage in the development and validation of digital public infrastructure projects, such as the National Digital ID System.
- Promote Inclusive Policy Development: Participate in consultations to ensure that new policies reflect diverse perspectives and protect vulnerable populations.
Legal professionals can play a pivotal role by providing guidance on compliance, digital rights, and cross-border data governance, aligning national strategies with international best practices.
AI, Policy, and Sustainable Development
Samoa’s approach to AI is closely tied to the broader goal of achieving the SDGs. Key priorities include:
- Resilience Building: Using digital tools to strengthen disaster preparedness and response.
- Inclusive Growth: Ensuring the benefits of digital transformation reach rural and marginalised communities.
- Partnerships for Development: Collaborating with regional partners and international organisations to share knowledge and resources.
By embedding digital transformation within national policy frameworks, Samoa can harness AI as a catalyst for sustainable, equitable development.
The Road Ahead: Nurturing Trust and Capability
The future of AI in Samoa will depend on deliberate actions to build digital infrastructure, foster trust, and respect cultural heritage. Policymakers, legal advisors, and professionals are encouraged to collaborate, share expertise, and champion digital sovereignty so that AI truly serves the public good.
Continued dialogue and investment will help ensure that AI strengthens resilience, stimulates inclusive growth, and improves wellbeing across the nation. By making intentional choices today, Samoa is well-placed to shape a digital future that reflects its values and aspirations.
For further details or to engage in Samoa’s digital transformation journey, please contact Ms. Laufālē’ainā Lesā, Communications Analyst, UNDP Multi Country Office, Samoa at +685 23670 or [email protected]. More information is also available at UNDP Samoa.