Efforts to combat scammers 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 described the initiative as a significant step in Fiji’s fight against scams, supported by the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU). Throughout the week, various new initiatives were launched in collaboration with the UN, Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU.
In his opening remarks, Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, highlighted the essential role of international cooperation in strengthening Fiji’s digital resilience. He acknowledged the critical support from their partners, stating, “The invaluable support from Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union during National Scam Awareness Week has been instrumental in raising awareness and identifying strategies to fortify Fiji’s digital defenses.” He also noted the ongoing commitment from UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme as a sign of acknowledgment of its significance.
The EU’s focus on enhancing Fiji’s digital and financial capacity was also a key topic during the event. Mr. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, stated that the EU is committed to building digital resilience across the Pacific. He emphasized their aim to improve digital and financial capacities at community, industry, and policy levels, adding, “This is why the European Union is collaborating with the governments of Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF and why we have been strong supporters of this inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.”