Awards Fiji noted setting financial inclusion trend Microfinance Awards launched and viable partnerships, synergies and innovative products encouraged

RANOBA BAOA
SUVA
Fiji is setting a trend for other island nations in the Pacific to follow when it comes to financial inclusion in the region.
This is the belief of the Pacific Financial Inclusion Programme advisor and project manager, Reuben Summerlin.
He made these comments in his address during the National Microfinance Awards launch at the Reserve Bank of Fiji on Monday.
The awards event is a partnership by the Reserve Bank of Fiji with the Pacific Financial Inclusion and Life Insurance Corporation of India.
“It is worth mentioning that in introducing these awards, Fiji is again showing its leadership on financial inclusion in the region,” Mr Summerlin said.
“I understand other Pacific Island countries are discussing doing similar types of awards in their countries.”
LICI manager Information Technology, Sanjeev Jain, echoed similar sentiments.
“Fiji has been a leader in the Pacific for the development of microfinance sector and financial inclusion which is a key step to building a prosperous nation,” Mr Jain said.
Reserve Bank Governor, Barry Whiteside, said the central bank continues to encourage the financial service providers.
These include commercial banks and microfinance institutions, not to just look at the extension of credit as means of expanding economic opportunities.
“We would like them to seriously consider viable partnerships, synergies and developing innovative products and services,” he said.
“What is clear is that microfinance, and financial inclusion in general, has grown and adapted considerably during its short history in Fiji.”
Mr Whiteside acknowledged the support of other sponsors.
The awards are scheduled to take place on November 6 with a venue to be confirmed later. Nominations are now being accepted.
Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj