Pacific Microfinance Workshop - 2009

REPORT – Fiji Trip

Microfinance Pacific Workshop – 2009 - 13th to 17th July 2009
Radisson Resort, Denarau Island, Fiji

Participants

Meeting with Deputy Governor of PNG Central Bank
There are more than 200 participants, including representatives from international financials institutions, World Bank, UN, Donor representatives, Central Bank Governors from Pacific Island Countries, donor agencies, Microfinance Practitioners and Academics from UPNG and USP.

Networks
Chating with delegates from PNG

I had the opportunity to meet with some of the prominent bankers and leaders in the country such as, Deputy Governor of PNG Central Bank and Managers from the commercial banks, savings and loan societies, and insurances. Also had the opportunity to meet with the representatives from international financial institutions and donor representatives.

Issues or topics covered

- Micro – credit facilities in the Pacific
- Micro – Insurance policies for the Pacific Island countries
- Government Financial regulatory frames.
- Remittances
- Technology Innovations such as Mobile Banking…

Presentation

I was sheduled to do a presentation on the Future of Microfinance for the Pacific from a NGO perspective for 15 minutes but never enentuated and also in the panel for the general reflection on the workshop.

Lesson Learnt.

Many NGOs in Pacific Island countries have failed in their microfinance projects as par the report from the Governor – Reserve Bank of Fiji. However, it was high lighted that, NGOs do create enabling environment for Microfinance Industries in the Pacific.

Funding

The travel cost and accommodation were funded by AusAID through Foundation for International Development (FDC). Meals and Perdiems were taken care of by my self.
Donor Contribution = K12, 000 for Travel and accommodation
Project (AIGS)Contribution = K1, 500, meals and Perdiems.


Touring Denerau Island Resorts, Nadi Fiji.