Date : 01 December 2025

Media Note – National Financial Inclusion Taskforce Holds Second Semiannual Meeting

Members of the NFIT and Working Group Chairpersons at the NFIT meeting.
(Front L-R) Caroline Waqabaca, Aneth Kasebele, Eseta Nadakuitavuki (PS MWCSP), Governor Ariff Ali, Olivia Vakaosooso, Tupou Halofaki.
(Back L-R) Inoke Droya, Praneel Pritesh, Arisha Khan, Akata Taito, Watesoni Nata Jnr, Anup Kumar, Ansar Ali, Shailendra Prasad, Rusiate Goneva.

The National Financial Inclusion Taskforce (NFIT) convened its second semi-annual meeting for 2025 reaffirming commitments to driving inclusive financial development across Fiji.

Established in 2010 NFIT oversees the implementation of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) through four dedicated Working Groups. The Taskforce brings together a broad group of stakeholders from the public and private sectors, civil society, development partners and donors to ensure that financial inclusion remains a national priority.

Since its inception NFIT has achieved remarkable progress, with over 85 percent of Fijian adults now participating in the formal financial sector. A significant milestone in Fiji’s journey toward inclusive growth.
During the meeting Reserve Bank of Fiji Governor and NFIT Chair, Mr Ariff Ali, emphasised that financial inclusion is not only a driver of economic growth and financial stability but also “a catalyst and a bridge to dignity for all Fijians.” He reiterated the Taskforce’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of inclusive financial development.

The four Working Groups reported notable progress on short-term targets under the Current NFIS, including:
• Season 8 of Noda I Lavo – Fiji’s flagship financial literacy television program, now in its eighth year of production.
• Financial Literacy Outreach – over 16,041 Fijians reached in 2025 through programs delivered by RBF in collaboration with Government, financial institutions, and partners.
• Launch of the Sustainable Finance Roadmap – a strategic guide for Fiji’s transition to greener and more inclusive financial systems.
• Fiji Innovation Hub – a new platform to foster collaboration and digital solutions for financial inclusion.
• Access to Business Funding Act 2025 – legislation designed to expand opportunities for MSMEs.
• Facilitator’s Resource for Financial and Digital Literacy – a comprehensive tool to support trainers in delivering effective financial education.

At the meeting Governor Ali officially launched the Facilitator’s Resource for Financial and Digital Literacy, now available in both English and vernacular editions, reinforcing the Taskforce’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

Looking ahead, the NFIT reaffirmed its dedication to advancing financial inclusion as a cornerstone of Fiji’s economic resilience and sustainable growth. By continuing to foster collaboration and innovation, the Taskforce aims to ensure that every Fijian can participate fully in the financial system.

NFIT Membership:
• Mr Ariff Ali, Governor – Reserve Bank of Fiji
• Mr Shiri Gounder, Permanent Secretary – Ministry of Finance, Commerce and Business Development
• Ms Eseta Nadakuitavuki, Permanent Secretary – Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection
• Mr Jone Navakamocea, Acting Permanent Secretary – Ministry of iTaukei Affairs
• Mr Shaheen Ali, Permanent Secretary – Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises
• Ms Fantasha Lockington, Chief Executive Officer – Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association
• Mr Shane Smith, Chairperson – Association of Banks in Fiji
• Ms Elenoa Biukoto, Chief Executive Officer – Vodafone Fiji
• Mr Anup Kumar, Head of Mobile Financial Services – Digicel Pacific
• Ms Sainimili Tawake, Chief Executive Officer – Pacific Disability Forum
• Mr Krishnan Narasimhan, Programme Manager – UNCDF-PICAP
• Ms Duri Buadromo – Independent Consultant

Working Group Chairpersons:
• Inclusive Finance Working Group – Ms Tupou Halofaki
• Digital Financial Services Working Group – Ms Aneth Kasebele
• MSME Finance Working Group – Mr Watesoni Nata Jnr
• Consumer Protection and Financial Capability Working Group – Ms Olivia Vakaosooso

RESERVE BANK OF FIJI

For further details, please contact:-

Communications Office
Telephone: (679) 3223 381 Email: info@rbf.gov.fj

Mr Mervin Singh – Manager Corporate Communications
Telephone: (679) 3223 229 Email: mervin@rbf.gov.fj