The fight against scams requires a collaborative effort, as emphasized by Acting Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica during the National Scam Awareness Week held in Suva. He noted that this awareness initiative marks a significant step in Fiji’s battle against fraudulent activities, with backing from the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU).
During the awareness week, new initiatives were launched by the UN, the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU. Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, highlighted the crucial role of international cooperation in enhancing Fiji’s digital resilience. He stated that the support from Australia, New Zealand, and the EU has been vital in raising awareness and creating strategies to bolster Fiji’s digital defenses.
The EU’s commitment to strengthening Fiji’s digital and financial infrastructure was prominently featured in the opening session. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, emphasized the EU’s focus on enhancing digital resilience throughout the Pacific region. He mentioned the goal of improving digital and financial capacities at various levels, including community, industry, and policy.
Velazquez reaffirmed the EU’s dedication to promoting this commitment in Fiji, highlighting their collaboration with Australia and New Zealand through the UNCDF, and expressing strong support for the inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.