In a joint effort to bolster cybersecurity measures and response capabilities, Australia and Samoa are collaborating through the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the Samoa Computer Emergency Response Team (SamCERT) Division.
This week, from 17th to 21st July 2023, Retrospect Labs, an Australian cybersecurity firm, is conducting a specialised ‘Defensive Readiness and Cyber Security Exercise Program.’ The program comprises cybersecurity workshops and hands-on training tailored to the critical infrastructure organisations in Samoa’s private and public sectors. Developed in partnership with MCIT, the program is finely attuned to address Samoa’s specific cybersecurity needs.
The Australian Government has generously funded Retrospect Labs to deliver these vital trainings in Samoa and the surrounding region. This support aligns with Samoa’s Pathway for the Development and its National Cyber-Security Strategy, aimed at combating cyber-crime, fostering a secure digital economy, and promoting responsible technology use.
Her Excellency Emily Luck, Australia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, emphasized the significance of a secure digital ecosystem in empowering communities and nurturing innovative ideas. Recognising the potential damage of cyber incidents, Ryan Janosevic, the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of Retrospect Labs, highlighted the criticality of Incident Response skills in minimising their impact. Retrospect Labs is proud to contribute to Samoa’s journey towards enhancing Incident Response readiness and resilience.
Gratitude was expressed by Lefaoalii Unutoa Auelua-Fonoti, the Chief Executive Officer of MCIT, to the Australian Government for their continuous cybersecurity support. SamCERT, established in 2019 under MCIT, has played a frontline role in addressing cyber issues and responding to incidents in Samoa. The training provided by Retrospect Labs serves as a testament to the ongoing Australian support in this crucial domain.
Australia remains committed to nurturing Samoa’s cybersecurity ambitions, extending continuous support to the SamCERT Division since its inception. SamCERT plays a pivotal role as Samoa’s National Cyber Security Agency, providing awareness and assistance to individuals and local organizations in dealing with cybersecurity threats and incidents.
