Fiji is facing a dramatic rise in HIV infections, with recent statistics indicating a ten-fold increase in cases since 2014. Specifically, in January 2025, the government declared an HIV outbreak, acknowledging the urgent need to address this growing crisis as new infections reportedly tripled from the previous year.
Mark Shaheel Lal, the founder of Living Positive Fiji, stated, “There is no such thing as peer support here. We are starting from zero,” emphasizing the necessity for a community-driven approach to combating the stigma and lack of resources faced by those living with HIV. Alarmingly, only a quarter of individuals diagnosed with HIV in Fiji are receiving the essential antiretroviral therapy treatments, leading to fears that many individuals remain untreated.
In response to this increasing health vulnerability, the Ministry of Health has initiated a comprehensive HIV Surge Strategy aimed at improving access to testing and treatment. However, systemic obstacles remain, as many individuals diagnosed with HIV fail to follow through with treatment or care due to embarrassment and stigma.
Health experts, including Dean Cassano from the Burnet Institute, are advocating for a community-led intervention that involves training peer counselors. This initiative focuses on empowering those living with HIV to provide support and counselling to others facing similar challenges. Mr. Cassano noted that “the core objective is to improve treatment adherence” by creating a network of peer support aimed at addressing misconceptions and facilitating easier access to healthcare.
The rise in HIV infections is partly attributed to higher rates of injecting drug use, particularly a practice known as “blue-toothing”, where users share blood. Remarkably, half of those currently in treatment contracted the virus through this method. The local health authorities are therefore compelled to address not only the stigma attached to the virus but also the drug problem that exacerbates HIV transmission.
In addition, community-based organizations like Empower Pacific play an essential role in local efforts to promote awareness and support for individuals amongst marginalized groups. The mobilization of resources, which recently raised over AUD$146,000 through crowdfunding, signifies a community commitment to reversing the tide of the epidemic through education and peer-supported interventions.
Despite the daunting challenges presented by the rising rate of HIV infections, there remains a hopeful outlook. With concerted efforts from health officials, community leaders, and international partners, there is potential for a healthier future, if comprehensive support systems can be established to ensure that affected individuals receive the treatment they need. The integration of local knowledge and peer support promises a robust framework for sustaining health care access in Fiji, aiming not only to combat HIV but to cultivate a more health-aware society overall.
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