A recent report from the Consumer Council of Fiji provides valuable insights into the state of digital financial services (DFS) among Fijians. Entitled “Voices from the Margins: Perceptions and Recommendations on Digital Finance Services (DFS) in Fiji,” the report highlights both the engagement levels and obstacles faced by users within this digital ecosystem.
Despite a growing number of Fijians using DFS, many encounter significant barriers that limit their ability to fully participate in the digital financial realm. Key challenges identified include unreliable network services, the high cost of necessary technology, limited accessibility features that cater to a diverse range of needs, and widespread worries regarding data security. Low-income individuals especially struggle with affording smartphones and necessary data plans, which are crucial for accessing these services.
The report emphasizes the importance of smartphone ownership in enabling financial participation. Currently, 73 percent of respondents own and actively use a smartphone, underscoring the devices’ essential role in accessing DFS. However, 23 percent of participants do not own a smartphone, making it difficult for them to engage with digital financial services. This exclusion can exacerbate socioeconomic disparities, as those with limited technology remain unable to capitalize on the economic, social, and educational benefits that DFS can offer.
Feedback collected from underserved communities, such as the elderly and individuals with disabilities, highlights unique challenges they face in interacting with DFS. The report reveals various barriers including inaccessible apps and websites, inadequate customer support, and the need for clearer instructions that accommodate their specific needs, indicating a pressing requirement for more inclusive design and support systems.
In terms of usage frequency, the findings show that 23 percent of respondents use DFS daily, while 25 percent access them weekly, and the majority (47 percent) utilize these services monthly. This latter group likely engages in larger financial activities such as rent payments and utility bills. The research also identifies the diverse applications of DFS, with notable percentages allocated for remittances (32 percent), shopping and expenditures (45 percent), welfare assistance (11 percent), and saving and borrowing (13 percent).
Overall, the findings from this report shed light on the digital financial landscape in Fiji, illustrating the critical need for improvements in accessibility and user experience to ensure that all Fijians can benefit from digital financial services. With proper interventions and inclusive design, there is a hopeful outlook for bridging the digital divide and empowering marginalized communities to fully engage in the economic advantages that DFS provide.
This article encapsulates the importance of addressing these barriers firmly, as enhancing DFS accessibility can play a pivotal role in fostering financial inclusion and ultimately improving the quality of life for many Fijians.
Leave a comment