Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, praised the commitment of healthcare professionals serving in often difficult and remote areas during his speech at the Pacific Paediatric Association 2025 Conference in Nadi last week. He recognized the significant progress achieved in reducing child mortality rates and expanding immunization initiatives, yet expressed concern that child health advancements in the Pacific’s small island states are trailing behind global progress.
He pointed out that, akin to global trends, the primary causes of child fatalities under the age of five in the Pacific are infections such as pneumonia and neonatal issues, including prematurity and complications during birth, emphasizing that many of these deaths could be prevented with straightforward, evidence-based interventions.
Dr. Tudravu highlighted that under- and over-nutrition, along with access to quality healthcare and environmental factors, significantly affect children’s health and well-being. He noted that children with developmental delays or disabilities are often insufficiently identified and receive late access to essential support and services. Furthermore, he called attention to the growing needs for mental health services tailored to children and adolescents, alongside addressing neurodevelopmental conditions and non-communicable diseases affecting younger populations.
Dr. Tudravu underscored the importance of moving beyond survival to foster development, inclusion, and overall well-being, stating, “Our vision for our children’s future must be bold and inclusive.” He invoked the Fijian saying “Na Bula Sautu,” suggesting that it represents more than just good health but encompasses living life to its fullest potential.
He urged for prioritizing policies fostering child health, inclusion, and development within national and regional health agendas, advocating for increased investment in early childhood development services, access to inclusive education, and mental health support for children with disabilities. His message resonated with the initiatives discussed at recent summits focused on child welfare, which aim to unite efforts across the Pacific to safeguard and nurture the region’s children, revealing a collective commitment towards transformative change that fosters healthier futures.
This ongoing dialogue and collaboration among Pacific nations reflect a shared hope for addressing these pressing challenges, ensuring that each child can reach their fullest potential in a nurturing environment.
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