Efforts to combat scammers require a united front, as emphasized by the Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, during the National Scam Awareness Week held in Suva.
Kamikamica described the awareness initiative as a crucial step in Fiji’s battle against scams, receiving backing from the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU). Throughout National Scam Awareness Week, new initiatives were introduced in collaboration with the UN, the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, highlighted the significance of international partnership in boosting Fiji’s digital resilience. He acknowledged the vital support from Australia, New Zealand, and the EU in enhancing awareness and formulating strategies to strengthen digital defenses in Fiji.
Ali noted, “The continued commitment to Fiji through UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme is a testament to our partners’ recognition of its critical importance.”
During the opening session, the EU’s focus on enhancing Fiji’s digital and financial capacity was emphasized. Mr. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to promoting digital resilience throughout the Pacific region.
Velazquez explained that the aim is to fortify digital and financial capabilities at community, industry, and policy levels. “The same commitment is evident here in Fiji. This is why the European Union is collaborating with the governments of Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF,” he stated. “And this is also why we have been a strong supporter of this inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.”