The Health Ministry in Fiji is formulating a strategic plan to address the escalating HIV cases in the country, utilizing a thorough and coordinated procedure. Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu asserted that handling the rise of HIV cases necessitates contributions from various sectors and is not limited to the ministry alone.
Dr. Lalabalavu stated that the entire government, society, and different stakeholders are part of this initiative which also includes discussions with inter-ministerial departments, NGOs, civil societies, religious groups, and native bodies.
Despite the categorization of certain areas as ‘red zones’ like Kinoya, the minister highlighted the need for a nationwide strategy to deal with HIV. He emphasized that it’s a whole-of-country issue that needs contextual understanding and unique solutions in each area, irrespective of its designated zone. The ministry is in the final stages of establishing this wide-reaching strategy to regulate the HIV rise across the country.