Fiji’s central bank has been honored with The Nestor Espenilla Jr Financial Inclusion Innovation Award at the 2024 Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI) Awards ceremony. This prestigious award, presented annually during the AFI Global Policy Forum, recognizes outstanding initiatives from regulatory bodies that enhance financial inclusion.
Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) governor Ariff Ali emphasized that this accolade represents a commitment to promoting inclusive finance and ensuring access to financial services for everyone. At a celebratory event in Suva, Mr. Ali remarked, “This achievement honors the tremendous progress we’ve made in advancing financial inclusion. It reflects the resilience, innovation, and collaborative spirit that defines our nation.”
He further noted that the award celebrates the collective efforts of development partners, financial institutions, government agencies, the private sector, and communities in creating a more inclusive financial future for Fiji.
Dr. Eliki Boletawa, AFI Director of Policy Programs and Implementation, commended RBF for its exceptional work in boosting financial inclusion through innovative digital solutions. He stated that RBF’s efforts have significantly transformed Fiji’s financial landscape and serve as a model for other countries aiming to improve financial inclusion. “It acknowledges RBF’s relentless drive to bridge the financial inclusion gap, particularly for underserved populations, including women, youth, and rural communities,” Dr. Boletawa added.