Learn to say no when people ask for money if you cannot afford it.
That was one of the key messages delivered to the people of the Lomaiviti Group by the Lomaiviti Provincial Council Chair, Samuela Vadei, who says financial literacy and smarter money management has become increasingly important amid the ongoing fuel crisis and rising living costs.
Speaking to fijivillage News during the Lomaiviti Provincial Council meeting at the Civic Centre in Suva, Vadei says communities are being encouraged to manage their finances more carefully during difficult economic conditions.
Insert: Vadei - Be smart with your money May 28
Vadei says officials from the Reserve Bank of Fiji recently conducted a two-hour financial awareness session for villagers focused on budgeting, money management and making smarter financial decisions.
He says many people often feel pressured to financially assist relatives and others even when they are already struggling with limited resources.
According to Vadei, people cannot continue giving away money they do not have and must become more financially responsible moving forward.
He says the current economic pressures, including fuel-related challenges, are affecting everyone, making financial awareness and discipline increasingly important for village communities.
