Efforts to combat scammers require a united front, as emphasized by Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, at the National Scam Awareness Week held in Suva. Mr. Kamikamica described the awareness initiative as a significant turning point in Fiji’s battle against fraud, with backing from the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU).
During the observance of National Scam Awareness Week, new initiatives were launched with the collaboration of the UN, 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 during his opening remarks.
“The invaluable support from our partners Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union towards National Scam Awareness Week has been pivotal in creating awareness and developing strategies to fortify Fiji’s digital defenses,” Mr. Ali stated. He noted the ongoing commitment through UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme as a clear indication of the partners’ acknowledgment of its vital importance.
The EU’s dedication to enhancing Fiji’s digital and financial capabilities was also a major theme in the opening session. Mr. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, underlined the EU’s commitment to promoting digital resilience throughout the Pacific.
“Our aim is to strengthen digital and financial capabilities at the community, industry, and policy levels,” Mr. Velazquez explained. “This commitment is clearly reflected in our collaboration with the governments of Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF, and it underscores our strong support for this inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.”