Fiji is stepping up its fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) following the conclusion of a five-year collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The second phase of the Prevention and Control of NCDs project came to an end during a seminar held in Suva on Friday.
Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, Fiji’s Minister for Health and Medical Services, emphasized that this partnership has significantly reinforced the nation’s health systems. He noted that incorporating the Wellness Centre into the National Food Taskforce enables health considerations to be integrated into national food policy.
Throughout the project, Wellness Promoting Systems were established nationwide, along with the creation of Standard Operating Procedures for health screenings. A significant addition to the training for health professionals was the inclusion of Motivational Interviewing techniques, which facilitate lifestyle changes through counseling.
The initiative saw over 200 workplaces adopt health promotion plans, leveraging digital tools that analyzed more than 3,000 employee health screenings, thus fostering a comprehensive approach to health management in the workplace.
Yumi Kimura, the Resident Representative of JICA in Fiji, reaffirmed Japan’s ongoing commitment to support the health sector in Fiji. She highlighted the importance of Fiji’s cross-sector collaboration in health initiatives and mentioned a recent grant agreement signed on February 19 that will provide additional health and medical equipment.
Fiji’s proactive measures to combat NCDs not only signify progress in public health but also reflect a robust partnership model that could inspire similar efforts in other nations. This collaboration paves the way for a healthier future, demonstrating that teamwork and comprehensive strategies can lead to significant improvements in public health.
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