Efforts to combat scammers necessitate a united approach. This message was emphasized by Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, during the National Scam Awareness Week event in Suva.
Mr. Kamikamica described the awareness initiative as a crucial step in Fiji’s ongoing battle against fraud, supported by the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU).
As part of National Scam Awareness Week, the UN, together with the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU, unveiled new initiatives aimed at tackling scams.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, emphasized the significance of international cooperation in boosting Fiji’s digital resilience. He acknowledged the vital contributions from Australia, New Zealand, and the EU in raising awareness and developing strategies to enhance Fiji’s digital defenses.
Mr. Ali remarked, “The ongoing commitment to Fiji through UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme highlights our partners’ understanding of its critical importance.”
The EU’s role in strengthening Fiji’s digital and financial infrastructure was also a key topic during the opening session. Mr. Pedro Velazquez, who leads the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to enhancing digital resilience throughout the Pacific region.
He stated that their goals include improving digital and financial capabilities at community, industry, and policy levels. “This same commitment is present here in Fiji, which is why the European Union is working alongside the governments of Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF,” Mr. Velazquez explained. He also expressed strong support for the inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.