Reserve Bank of Fiji’s Deputy Governor Esala Masitabua has returned to his position after a two-year secondment with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington D.C. Masitabua served as an Advisor within the Southeast Asia Group from November 2023 to October 2025, where he provided vital macroeconomic and financial policy advice to the IMF Executive Board and coordinated communications with member countries, with a special emphasis on representing small states in key development discussions. His experience also included acting as an advisor for Tonga during this time.
RBF Governor Ariff Ali expressed enthusiasm about Masitabua’s return, highlighting that the secondment of local officials to international institutions like the IMF is integral to the Reserve Bank’s strategy for leadership development and capacity building. “We are delighted to welcome Masitabua back and look forward to the application of his enhanced expertise to strengthen our surveillance and policy work,” Ali stated.
As Masitabua resumes his role as Deputy Governor, his extensive experience at the IMF is anticipated to significantly bolster policy formulation and succession planning at the Reserve Bank of Fiji. This transition comes amidst broader changes within the institution, such as Jacinta Hesaie’s recent appointment as Chief Manager of the Economics Group, indicating a shift towards strengthening the economic capabilities within Fiji’s financial system.
Both Masitabua and Hesaie’s appointments demonstrate the Reserve Bank’s commitment to effective governance and capacity building, reflecting a positive outlook for the future of Fiji’s monetary policy and economic landscape. With experienced professionals at the helm, the Reserve Bank is poised to address the challenges ahead while fostering a robust financial environment in Fiji.
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