Naibuka Saune, the chief investment officer of the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), has been named the chairperson of the board of directors for the newly formed Digital Financial Services Pte Limited (DFS). This legal entity is now responsible for the complete ownership, operational management, and oversight of the M-PAiSA mobile payment platform. DFS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone Fiji.
Mr. Saune is recognized as a prominent business leader with a robust history of enhancing organizational growth and transforming companies into sustainable, focused operations. Prior to his role at FNPF, he served as the chief executive officer of Merchant Finance and has held various significant positions, including leading mergers and acquisitions at Amalgamated Telecom Holdings (ATH). His career also includes stints at multiple financial firms in Sydney, specializing in private equity and corporate advisory services.
He holds an impressive educational background, having earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting from the University of Technology in Sydney, a Master of Philosophy in Accounting from the University of New South Wales, and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from the University of the South Pacific. In addition to his role at DFS, Mr. Saune contributes as a non-executive director on various boards in Fiji and the surrounding region and is affiliated with the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Joining Mr. Saune on the DFS board are Krishna Raju, Pradeep Lal, and Kishan Ram, who is appointed as the company secretary. The formation of DFS aligns with the compliance of the National Payment System Act 2021, which was established following the Reserve Bank of Fiji’s official licensing of the M-PAiSA platform as a payment service provider.
This new appointment signifies a critical step in Fiji’s ongoing evolution towards a digital financial landscape, enhancing access to financial services for all citizens. Saune’s leadership, combined with the strategic direction of DFS, is anticipated to further drive innovation in Fiji’s financial services sector. As mobile payment platforms gain traction, they pave the way for broader financial inclusion, reinforcing the potential for economic growth and improved living standards across the nation. This development is a hopeful sign for Fiji’s future, where access to modern financial tools can empower individuals and communities alike.
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