The fight against scams demands a united effort, according to Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, during the National Scam Awareness Week held in Suva. He emphasized that this awareness initiative marks a significant step in Fiji’s ongoing battle against fraudulent activities, supported by partnerships with the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU).
The week saw the launch of new initiatives in collaboration with the UN, the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU. Shaheen Ali, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, underscored the critical role of international cooperation in enhancing Fiji’s digital resilience.
Ali expressed gratitude for the essential support from Australia, New Zealand, and the EU during this week, highlighting its importance in raising awareness and developing strategies to bolster Fiji’s defenses against digital threats. He also noted the continued dedication from UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme as evidence of their partners’ commitment to Fiji’s digital security.
The EU’s focus on enhancing Fiji’s digital and financial capabilities was a major topic during the opening session. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, reiterated the EU’s commitment to building digital resilience throughout the Pacific region and its collaboration with Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF. Velazquez stated that the EU is keen on strengthening community-level digital and financial capacities, which is also why they support Fiji’s inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.