Opposition parliamentarian Jone Usamate has described the rise in HIV cases in Fiji as “shocking” and a “wake-up call” that demands immediate attention.
According to recent statistics from the Health Ministry, there have been 522 new cases of HIV reported this year, reflecting a 33 percent increase compared to 2023. Among these, 85 cases were linked to injectable drug use.
Usamate highlighted that the sharing of needles among drug users significantly contributes to the spread of HIV, particularly affecting the youth. He emphasized the need for a proactive approach to engage young people in constructive activities to prevent them from turning to drugs and casual, unprotected sexual encounters, which can increase their risk of contracting HIV.
He pointed to a report indicating a troubling trend where young people are moving from using suki to marijuana and then progressing to harder drugs.
Usamate raised the possibility of implementing Syringe Services programs, which provide access to clean and sterile needles and syringes while offering safe disposal options for used syringes. However, he acknowledged that such programs could be perceived as promoting drug use.
He called for stronger proactive measures to be taken, not just by the government, but by all sectors of the community, including religious organizations, families, and educational institutions.
Usamate urged the government to establish task forces that integrate various ministries, civil society organizations, and religious groups to tackle this pressing issue. He also advocated for increased investment in awareness campaigns across mainstream and social media, enabling families to educate their members about HIV and related risks.
“We need a united effort. As a nation, we must come together to combat this challenge,” he concluded.