Efforts to combat scams require a united approach, as emphasized by Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, during the National Scam Awareness Week in Suva. Mr. Kamikamica noted that this awareness campaign marks a significant step in Fiji’s battle against fraudulent activities, backed by the support of the Australian, New Zealand, and European Union governments.
Throughout National Scam Awareness Week, new initiatives were introduced by the UN, the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, and the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the EU. The Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, underscored the vital role of international partnerships in strengthening Fiji’s digital resilience.
Mr. Ali remarked, “The invaluable support from our partners Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union has been pivotal in raising awareness and devising strategies to fortify Fiji’s digital defenses.” He added that the ongoing support from the UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme underscores the significance of these partnerships.
The EU’s commitment to enhancing Fiji’s digital and financial capabilities was highlighted in the opening session by Mr. Pedro Velazquez, the head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health. He expressed the EU’s dedication to promoting digital resilience throughout the Pacific region, stating their goal is to bolster digital and financial capacities at various levels within the community, industry, and policymaking.
Mr. Velazquez further explained, “This commitment is clear here in Fiji, which is why the European Union collaborates with the governments of Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF. This is also the reason we are a staunch supporter of this inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.”