Vodafone Fiji’s launch of M-PAISA signals another historic occasion a completely new avenue for Fijians to access financial services says Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama.
“M-PAiSA will, with the use of mobile phone technology and communications, enable unbanked, non-saving and geographically isolated Fijians to participate in the mainstream financial sector of our country.
“M-PAiSA’s full potential will be realized once we have connectivity or network throughout Fiji. After all, it is those on the margins, those in the rural and island areas that need accessibility and connectivity – they are the ones who need to be empowered.
“It is, therefore, imperative that all providers of communication offer increased and better connectivity. Government looks forward to and shall work with all stakeholders to increase network coverage.
Commodore Bainimarama said his Government welcomes and encourages new technology, innovation, creativity, liberalization and empowerment.
Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama goes through the steps of how customers would be able to transfer money through Vodafone’s M-Paisa product
“M-PAiSA is a manifestation of that vision and policy.
“The various initiatives, fiscal incentives and focus on technology and streamlining processes by Government is an indication of that commitment.
“Needless to say, M-PAiSA has the full backing of Government and has been endorsed by the Reserve Bank of Fiji,” he said.
Commodore Bainimarama acknowledged the fact that the software of M-PAiSA has been locally developed.
“This is indeed a milestone.
“It demonstrates not only Fijian potential but also our capacity and knowledge base.
“It demonstrates the key role Fiji plays in the South Pacific. Not surprisingly, therefore, M-PAiSA is the first in the South Pacific,” he said.
The Prime Minister congratulated the Vodafone Team for the initiative that will benefit the people of Fiji.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I am sure you would all agree that M-PAiSA takes us, takes Fiji, to another dimension.”