Māori data sovereignty | Mana raraunga

1. Data Sovereignty Frameworks

• Māori Data Governance Model: This model emphasizes culturally grounded governance of Māori data as a taonga (treasure), ensuring it aligns with Māori values of protection, stewardship, and tino rangatiratanga (self-determination). It includes eight “Data Pou” (pillars) that prioritize Māori informational needs, repatriation of data, and anti-racist data practices.

• Te Mana Raraunga: Advocates for Māori rights in data governance by safeguarding data integrity, supporting Māori-led infrastructure, and advancing sustainable digital innovations.

2. Innovative Technology Solutions

• AI and Data Applications: Projects like the Ngāti Toa Rangatira “Lighthouse Project” use AI to combine historical records with modern data for environmental monitoring. Such tools empower Māori to manage resources while preserving cultural narratives.

• Digital Learning Platforms: Tools like Kiwa Digital’s apps (e.g., Te Pou Herenga) enhance cultural competency by teaching te reo Māori and tikanga through interactive features. These innovations help organisations engage authentically with Māori communities.

3. Cloud and Security Practices

• The New Zealand government’s Cloud First policy integrates Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles to ensure accountability, ethics, and collaboration in managing Māori data. This includes involving iwi in decisions about data sensitivity, storage locations, and governance improvements.

4. Supporting Māori Participation in Tech

• The Digital Technologies Industry Transformation Plan (ITP) focuses on increasing Māori representation in the tech sector through mentorship programs, skill-building initiatives, and fostering “by Māori for Māori” approaches. This aims to nurture the growth of the Māori tech ecosystem while respecting mātauranga (knowledge).

5. Algorithmic Sovereignty

• The concept of Māori Algorithmic Sovereignty extends data sovereignty principles to algorithms, ensuring they are culturally appropriate and produce equitable outcomes for Māori communities. This involves developing tikanga-based methods to assess or decolonize existing algorithms.

6. Practical Tools for Empowerment

• Initiatives like Tupu.nz reconnect Māori landowners with their whenua (land) via digital platforms, supporting sustainable land management and cultural revitalisation.

• Tailored IT services provided by Māori-owned companies ensure that technology solutions align with the unique needs of iwi and hapū.

By combining these strategies, Māori organisations can assert greater control over their data while leveraging technology to achieve cultural, social, economic, and environmental goals.