Fiji’s central bank has received the prestigious Nestor Espenilla Jr Financial Inclusion Innovation Award at the 2024 Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI) Awards ceremony. This annual event, part of the AFI Global Policy Forum, recognizes outstanding initiatives from regulatory institutions that promote significant financial inclusion.
Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) governor Ariff Ali stated that the award symbolizes excellence and acknowledges their steadfast dedication to fostering inclusive finance and providing access to financial services for everyone. He emphasized that this achievement reflects the substantial progress made in advancing financial inclusion, showcasing the resilience, innovation, and collaborative spirit that characterizes Fiji.
During a celebratory gathering at the GPH in Suva, Mr. Ali expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of development partners, financial institutions, government agencies, the private sector, and communities in building a more inclusive financial future for Fiji.
AFI Director of Policy Programs and Implementation, Dr. Eliki Boletawa, praised RBF’s exemplary efforts in enhancing financial inclusion through innovative solutions, particularly in digital and financial technology. He noted that RBF’s initiatives have not only transformed Fiji’s financial landscape but also serve as a source of inspiration for other countries aiming to improve financial inclusion. He added that the award highlights RBF’s relentless efforts to close the financial inclusion gap, especially for underserved groups, including women, youth, and rural communities.