The fight against scammers is a challenge that necessitates a united approach. This was emphasized by Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, during the National Scam Awareness Week held in Suva.
Mr. Kamikamica noted that this awareness initiative marks a significant step in Fiji’s battle against fraud, receiving backing from the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU). During this week, the UN, Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU rolled out new initiatives.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, underscored the necessity of international cooperation to bolster Fiji’s digital resilience. He stated, “The invaluable support from our partners Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union towards National Scam Awareness Week has been instrumental in creating awareness and identifying strategies to strengthen Fiji’s digital defenses.”
Ali also acknowledged the ongoing commitment to Fiji through the UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme, highlighting its significance.
The EU’s effort to enhance Fiji’s digital and financial capabilities was another focal point of the opening session. Mr. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, affirmed the EU’s commitment to improving digital resilience throughout the Pacific region.
He added that the goal is to strengthen digital and financial capacities across 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. And this is also why we have been a strong supporter of this inaugural National Scam Awareness Week,” Mr. Velazquez said.