Opposition parliamentarian Jone Usamate has described the increase in HIV cases in Fiji as “shocking” and a significant wake-up call that demands immediate action.
According to recent information from the Health Ministry, there have been 522 new HIV cases reported this year, marking a 33 percent rise compared to 2023, with 85 of these cases attributed to injectable drug use.
Mr. Usamate highlighted that the sharing of needles among drug users significantly contributes to the spread of HIV, particularly affecting the youth, who are the most at risk. He emphasized the need for a proactive approach to engage young people in constructive activities to deter them from using hard drugs and participating in unprotected sexual encounters that could lead to HIV infection.
A recent report has indicated a troubling trend among youth transitioning from cannabis use to harder substances.
Mr. Usamate pointed to successful strategies implemented in other countries, such as Syringe Services programs that provide access to clean needles and disposal options for used syringes. However, he cautioned that this approach could be misunderstood as promoting drug use.
He advocated for increased proactive measures that would involve not only the government but also community organizations, religious groups, families, and educational institutions.
He urged the government to create task forces that would engage various ministries, civil society organizations, and religious entities to tackle the issue comprehensively. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of investing in awareness campaigns across mainstream and social media so that families can be better informed and equipped to educate their own members.
Mr. Usamate called for a collective effort from the nation to combat this serious public health challenge.