Fintech in Fiji: M-PAiSA operator Digital Financial Services has been named a finalist for PayTech of the Year at the Asia Fintech Awards 2026, highlighting Fiji’s home-grown mobile money push for financial inclusion. Climate & water security: El Niño is tightening the screws across the Pacific, with Fiji warning of possible “drastic measures” as rainfall stays below normal and WAF activates dry-weather contingency plans; PNG residents are also preparing for water disruptions in Port Moresby. Health systems: Fiji has opened a new National SRH and HIV Office to coordinate prevention, testing, treatment, and data management, backed by Australia’s $23.5m support under the Vuvale Union Health Partnership. Tech & skills: Fiji’s National Conference on Information Technology returns for its 7th year with a “Vanua to Virtual” theme and record sponsorship, aiming to build local digital capacity. Ocean science: Fiji-based researchers report bull sharks in Fiji repeatedly gather at the same reef and show a slight preference for spending time with genetic relatives. Legal/health procurement: Fiji’s High Court will rule on Oct 1 whether a 2011 health tender case proceeds, with former health leaders arguing there’s no case to answer. Agriculture tech: Government is exploring mechanical harvesting for hilly cane farms, testing machines suited to Fiji’s terrain to ease labour shortages. Regional connectivity: Post Fiji plans a Pacific Mail Hub in Nadi and is expanding digital services like parcel tracking and lockers.