The Ministry of Health is exploring the possibility of launching a needle exchange program as part of its Counter Narcotic Strategic Plan aimed at harm reduction. According to Acting Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, this initiative seeks to support intravenous drug users in Fiji by learning from successful international practices.
In an interview, Dr. Cikamatana discussed the advantages of creating dedicated spaces where individuals can safely obtain syringes and needles for drug use. “Abroad, there are designated locations where people can receive a syringe and needle,” she explained. “It’s a safe environment for them to use and then leave.”
She emphasized the need to consider the local context, pointing out that while similar initiatives have worked in other countries, their acceptance in Fiji is uncertain. “We don’t fully understand the local demand,” she noted. “We must evaluate who would use the service, how they would access it, and the timing of such access. We need to consider the location and security of the service facility.”
Dr. Cikamatana raised concerns about the dangerous practices that some drug users engage in, highlighting the risks of using drugs in public settings. She stressed the importance of implementing harm reduction strategies. The proposed needle exchange initiative would also necessitate a review and enhancement of current laws governing syringe use.
Additionally, a new narcotics Bill is being developed, which may introduce provisions for establishing a narcotics court to improve access to treatment and harm reduction services. “One component of that Bill focuses on creating a narcotics court,” Dr. Cikamatana stated. “We need to explore the avenues linked to that court.”
The ministry remains dedicated to ongoing discussions to assess the viability of the needle exchange program, taking into account the unique challenges faced in Fiji.