The fight against scammers requires a united effort, emphasized Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, during the National Scam Awareness Week held in Suva. This 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).
National Scam Awareness Week saw the introduction of new initiatives in collaboration with the UN, Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU. Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, underscored the importance of international cooperation in bolstering Fiji’s digital resilience.
“The invaluable support from our partners, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU, has been crucial in raising awareness and developing strategies to enhance Fiji’s digital defenses,” Mr. Ali stated. He added that the ongoing commitment to Fiji through the UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme reflects the acknowledgment of its vital importance by the partners.
A significant focus during the opening session was the EU’s commitment to enhancing Fiji’s digital and financial capacity. Mr. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, highlighted the EU’s effort to promote digital resilience throughout the Pacific.
Mr. Velazquez articulated that their aim is to strengthen both digital and financial capabilities at community, industry, and policy levels. “This commitment is clearly visible here in Fiji. That’s why the European Union is partnering with the governments of Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF,” he remarked. He expressed strong support for the inaugural National Scam Awareness Week, highlighting the collaborative effort to combat scams in the region.