Fiji Turns to Forensic Accounting Techniques to Combat Fraud and Corruption Amid Capacity Shortage

In a bid to upgrade its workforce’s skills and tackle the growing menace of fraud and corruption, Fiji recently hosted a short course in forensic accounting and fraud investigation under the International Business and Economic Forum (IBEForuM). The three-day training session was facilitated by renowned expert Simon Padgett, who has 25 years of experience in the field.

Capacity Shortage Highlights Challenges

Fiji’s apparent shortage of qualified forensic accountants is a problem shared by many Pacific island countries. Speaking at the session, Mr. Padgett highlighted the challenges faced by the Anti-Corruption Commission in dealing with a high volume of cases, citing limited resources and personnel as major obstacles.

Training Program Objectives

The course aimed to equip delegates with the necessary skills to investigate and prevent financial crimes. The sessions covered various aspects of fraud and corruption, including:

• Traditional schemes such as money laundering, asset theft, and payroll fraud
• Emerging trends like electronic fraud and the use of artificial intelligence for fraudulent purposes

Course Participants

Thirty-five delegates, comprising heads of audit, finance, risk management, CEOs, and organizational leaders from Fiji and surrounding islands, attended the course.

Future Plans

Organizations involved in the initiative are reportedly considering additional training sessions later this year to further enhance the skills of their personnel. The success of the program underscores the need for capacity building in forensic accounting techniques in Fiji and the region at large, a critical step towards combating financial crimes and promoting transparency.