Praneeta Prakash 
Supplied
Fiji is looking at ways to strengthen its HIV response, with a focus on reducing stigma and improving access to support for vulnerable communities.
Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran discussed the issue with UNAIDS Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Eamonn Murphy.
The meeting focused on the impact of HIV on women, children, young people and other vulnerable communities.
Kiran and Murphy discussed the need to reduce discrimination against people living with HIV and ensure they can access education, social protection and other essential services.
Murphy highlighted progress in HIV treatment and stressed the importance of providing communities with accurate information.
He also explained the Undetectable equals Untransmittable message, which means people living with HIV who are on effective treatment and maintain an undetectable viral load do not sexually transmit HIV.
Kiran says HIV awareness must extend beyond the health sector and reach communities across Fiji.
She says greater awareness is also needed among women and children, including children living with HIV.
The meeting also discussed developing simple and culturally appropriate HIV messages in Fiji’s three major languages.
Kiran called for stronger community engagement outside Suva, particularly in Nadi and Lautoka.
Both sides agreed on the need for continued collaboration to strengthen awareness, reduce stigma and ensure vulnerable communities can access appropriate support and services.
Kiran thanked UNAIDS for its continued support and welcomed further cooperation to ensure Fiji’s HIV response remains inclusive and responsive to community needs.
