The Ministry of Health is exploring the possibility of launching a needle exchange program as part of its Counter Narcotic Strategic Plan aimed at reducing harm. According to Acting Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, this initiative is designed to tackle the issues faced by intravenous drug users in Fiji while drawing on effective practices from international programs.
In a recent interview, Dr. Cikamatana spoke about the advantages of creating designated areas where individuals could obtain syringes and needles in a safe environment. “There are places overseas that allow people to come in and receive a syringe and needle,” she stated. “It’s a secure space where they can inject safely before leaving.”
She emphasized the importance of understanding the local situation, noting that while such programs have shown success abroad, it remains uncertain how they would be perceived in Fiji. “We do not yet know the specific needs here,” she said. “It is crucial to assess who would use the service, how individuals will be identified, and the accessibility of the service.”
Dr. Cikamatana also highlighted the necessity of addressing the safety issues prevalent among drug users, who frequently engage in drug use in public areas, putting themselves at risk. She stressed the importance of implementing harm reduction strategies promptly.
Additionally, she mentioned that the potential needle exchange program would require a review and enhancement of current regulations regarding syringes. A new narcotics Bill is being developed, which may introduce a narcotics court aimed at improving access to treatment and harm reduction services.
“One of the provisions in that Bill is the establishment of a narcotics court,” she explained. “It will explore the connections between the court and related services.”
The Ministry is dedicated to ongoing discussions to evaluate the practicality of the needle exchange program in light of Fiji’s specific challenges.