The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is intensifying its initiatives to enhance condom accessibility in Fiji, following concerning data indicating a rise in HIV infections paired with alarmingly low condom usage. Brian Kironde, the UNFPA Youth and Adolescent Technical Adviser, emphasizes that knowledge about HIV/AIDS in Fiji is disturbingly low, with fewer than 35 percent fully informed, while condom utilization is under 29 percent among men and less than 10 percent for women.
Kironde articulates, “The primary transmission of HIV/AIDS is through unprotected sex. We firmly believe that if we can mitigate transmission through sexual encounters, we can address a significant portion of the problem.” Condoms play a critical role in sexual and reproductive health, offering dual protection against HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancies.
To shift harmful social norms and increase awareness, Kironde advocates for open discussions on these topics within families. The Ministry of Health in Fiji has responded by formulating an outbreak response plan that prioritizes preventive measures and ensures a continual supply of essential commodities like condoms.
UNFPA is collaborating with organizations including UNAIDS, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP, and DFAT to pool resources and expertise to tackle this public health challenge. Kironde emphasizes that the campaign transcends mere condom distribution as it aims to transform societal behaviors and systems, empowering individuals to make knowledgeable health choices.
As Fiji confronts the rising tide of HIV cases, the UNFPA calls upon communities to dismantle stigma and adopt preventive strategies, reiterating that enhancing access to protection can save lives.
Similar to previous assessments, the 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) revealed a critical need for increased awareness regarding HIV prevention across Fiji. The data highlighted that only 30 percent of young women and 26 percent of young men demonstrated a sound understanding of HIV prevention methods. UNAIDS’ Director, Renata Ram, indicated that only 24 percent of men and 9 percent of women aged 15 to 49 reported using condoms during their last sexual encounter.
To bolster HIV response efforts, UNAIDS has secured funding of $2.6 million from Australia, which will support Fiji’s ongoing initiatives to combat HIV over the next four years, adding to current funding from Australia and grants from the Global Fund specifically for HIV management.
This initiative is a beacon of hope, showcasing a collective effort to not only improve public health but also to instill a sense of responsibility and safeguarding within communities.
Leave a comment