The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is ramping up its efforts to improve condom accessibility in Fiji, amid concerning statistics that reveal a rise in HIV infections and alarmingly low rates of condom use. According to Brian Kironde, the UNFPA Youth and Adolescent Technical Adviser, less than 35 percent of the population is fully informed about HIV/AIDS, while condom use is reported at under 29 percent for men and less than 10 percent for women.
Kironde underscores the importance of condoms in combating the transmission of HIV/AIDS, pointing out that unprotected sex remains the primary avenue for the virus’s spread. “If we can mitigate transmission through sexual encounters, we can address a significant portion of the problem,” he stated. Condoms are essential not only for preventing HIV/AIDS but also for safeguarding against sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.
To foster better knowledge and shift harmful social norms, Kironde encourages open dialogue within families about these pressing issues. In response, the Ministry of Health in Fiji has developed an outbreak response plan focused on prevention and ensuring a steady supply of essential commodities, including condoms.
Further strengthening this initiative, UNFPA is partnering with organizations such as UNAIDS, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP, and DFAT to leverage resources and expertise in addressing this critical public health challenge. Kironde emphasizes that the campaign is more than just about condom distribution; it aims to transform societal behaviors and empower individuals to make informed health choices.
As the country grapples with a growing number of HIV cases, the UNFPA urges communities to dismantle stigma and adopt preventive strategies, affirming that improving access to protection can indeed save lives.
Reflecting on earlier findings, the 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) emphasized the urgent need for enhanced awareness surrounding HIV prevention in Fiji. The data revealed that only 30 percent of young women and 26 percent of young men possessed a solid understanding of HIV prevention methods. UNAIDS’ Director, Renata Ram, noted that a mere 24 percent of men and 9 percent of women aged 15 to 49 reported using condoms at their last sexual encounter.
In a supportive move, UNAIDS has obtained $2.6 million in funding from Australia to bolster Fiji’s ongoing HIV response initiatives over the next four years, complementing existing funding from Australia and grants from the Global Fund dedicated to HIV management.
This initiative shines as a beacon of hope for Fiji, showcasing a united effort to enhance public health while nurturing a community ethos of responsibility and safeguarding against HIV.
Leave a comment