
[Source: APLA Health]
Faith-based leaders say education and open and frank discussion is key to addressing Fiji’s HIV outbreak.
Fiji Council of Churches general secretary Reverend Simione Tugi is calling for urgent action, emphasizing the church’s role in tackling the crisis.
Tugi says there is growing concern over the alarming increase in HIV cases, particularly those linked to drug abuse.
[Fiji Council of Churches general secretary Reverend Simione Tugi]
He believes the church must use its influence to address this, especially since many of those affected are within the Christian community.
“The HIV crisis is reaching a critical point, and as the church, we cannot remain silent. We must speak out and use our platform to educate and encourage people to seek treatment,” he said.
Reverend Tugi said there were 1,193 villages, each with its own church, and this should be used as a platform for pastors to inform their communities on the dangers of drug abuse and HIV.
Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha President, Dhirendra Nand, said that open conversations within families and communities was one of the best ways to create awareness.
[Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha President, Dhirendra Nand]
“It’s no longer a taboo subject. Parents must discuss HIV with their children. We need to fight the stigma and ensure the next generation is educated and informed,” he said.
The Health Ministry has launched the National HIV Surge Strategy for 2024-2027 with the aim of reducing new infections and addressing the factors contributing to the virus spread.
The outbreak was declared after 1,093 new cases were reported between January to September last year.