Access to financial services is key to economic growth – FDB CEO

Ensuring everyone has access to financial services is a key to economic growth and personal prosperity.

Fiji Development Bank CEO, Saud Minam highlighted this at a joint roadshow that FDB and the Fiji National Provident Fund held in Naqara, Taveuni.

Minam says they want to make their services much more accessible and sometimes due to various reasons, people are hesitant to visit their offices.

He says they recognise the heightened challenges in remote areas, and their roadshow with the FNPF in Taveuni is a direct response to remove these barriers.

The FDB CEO says it is about making a tangible difference where it is needed most, especially with small businesses run by women and those operating in the agricultural sector.

He says such events serve as a platform for community engagement and relationship building, bringing together relevant partners and members of the public.

During the event, FDB highlighted its products and services, facilitated online application drives, and provided financial literacy advice.

Focus was directed towards the Bank’s loan products for women entrepreneurs, agricultural farming, and SMEs.

In addition, participants enquired on farming loans, investment for rentals, equity for FNPF deposits, SME access by FNPF members for those above 50 years old and eligibility for FNPF withdrawals.

With over 40 people in attendance, the roadshow also doubled as a stakeholder and networking opportunity.

This joint approach by FDB and FNPF bridges gaps and emphasizes the value of community outreach efforts, allowing them to truly be ‘your partner in progress’ in ‘securing your future.’