The Fijian government has recently implemented the Fiji National Early Childhood Development Policy, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and health for children, especially during their first 1000 days, according to Health Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu.
During his address at the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, Dr. Lalabalavu highlighted that ensuring the safety and protection of children is crucial for their lifelong health. He stated, “We need to protect our children from violence of all kinds, abuse, neglect, and conflict. That is what this Policy means for Fiji.”
He emphasized that children represent the future of Fiji and the Pacific region, and their needs and welfare will be prioritized in the national agenda. The aim is to provide proper care, stimulation, and opportunities for early learning in a nurturing environment.
Dr. Lalabalavu noted that a significant component in the development of this policy was the establishment of a multisectoral National Early Childhood Development Advisory Committee, formed in 2022. This committee includes members from various ministries—Health, Education, Finance, Women, Children and Social Protection—as well as representatives from the University of the South Pacific, Fiji Red Cross, Frank Hilton Organisation, the judiciary, and several faith-based organizations.
At the outset, supported by the advisory committee, a consultation forum was organized with experts and policy specialists to evaluate the current state of early childhood development in the country, with a focus on children aged 0 to 8 years and the necessary policy directions.
According to Dr. Lalabalavu, this significant step has been essential in crafting the Fiji ECD policy, which is expected to provide substantial benefits across the early childhood development sector and improve outcomes for approximately 88,000 children in Fiji.