Fiji’s central bank has been honored with 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 by regulatory bodies that significantly promote financial inclusion.
Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) governor Ariff Ali emphasized that the award symbolizes excellence and reflects their strong commitment to fostering inclusive finance and expanding access to financial services for everyone. “This achievement highlights the significant strides we’ve made in financial inclusion. It showcases the resilience, innovation, and collaborative spirit of our nation,” Mr. Ali shared with stakeholders during a celebratory event in Suva.
He noted that the award represents the united efforts and dedication of development partners, financial institutions, government agencies, the private sector, and communities to create a more inclusive financial future for Fiji.
Dr. Eliki Boletawa, AFI Director of Policy Programs and Implementation, praised RBF’s pioneering work in advancing financial inclusion through innovative digital solutions. He stated that RBF’s initiatives have transformed Fiji’s financial environment and serve as a model for other countries seeking to improve financial inclusion. “The award recognizes RBF’s unwavering efforts to close the financial inclusion gap, especially for underserved groups, including women, youth, and rural communities,” Dr. Boletawa added.