Cure Kids Fiji500 raises over 170,000 for the Fiji Oxygen Project as 23 riders complete a 500-kilometre circuit around Viti Levu
The 2025 Cure Kids Fiji500 fundraiser has surpassed the 150,000-dollar target and raised more than 170,000 for the Fiji Oxygen Project. Over four days in August, 23 riders from Australia and New Zealand rode 500 kilometres around Viti Levu, navigating challenging terrain and weather to bring life-saving oxygen to health centres and hospitals across Fiji.
Country Manager Dr. Jimaima Kailawadoko-Matanaicake praised the riders for their significant achievement and the community support that accompanied them, especially from schools and local communities along the route. The funds will be directed to hospital-grade oxygen supplies, an essential service for newborns in distress, children with respiratory illnesses, and patients in intensive care.
Context and impact
The Fiji Oxygen Project, run in partnership with Fiji’s Health Ministry, is a cornerstone of efforts to ensure reliable oxygen access across the country. The program has already delivered substantial benefits, with tens of thousands of patients assisted through improved oxygen supply and related equipment. Notably, solar-powered oxygen facilities have been installed in remote communities, helping to safeguard oxygen delivery even where electricity grids are unreliable. These efforts also include training health workers and expanding the reach of life-saving oxygen concentrators.
What this means for Fiji
– More robust oxygen access in rural and remote facilities reduces the risk of death from pneumonia, respiratory illnesses, and neonatal distress.
– Partnerships across government, non-profit, and community groups are enabling sustainable improvements in health infrastructure.
– Community fundraising events like Fiji500 and other Cure Kids Fiji initiatives continue to mobilize support for child health across the nation.
Summary
The Fiji500 event has evolved into a powerful platform for improving child and community health in Fiji, with the latest ride adding momentum to the Fiji Oxygen Project. By combining fundraising, solar-powered health solutions, and local engagement, Cure Kids Fiji and its partners are expanding access to essential medical care for vulnerable populations and building a more resilient health system.
A hopeful note
With ongoing community support, strong partnerships, and continued investment in solar-powered health infrastructure and workforce training, Fiji’s oxygen access is set to become more reliable for every corner of the country, helping save lives now and in the future.
Additional context and value-added notes
– The Fiji Oxygen Project has previously reached tens of thousands of patients and supported the deployment of multiple oxygen facilities and concentrators, underscoring the transformative potential of donor contributions when paired with local health system collaboration.
– Community and corporate sponsorships remain key to sustaining these efforts, and future Cure Kids Fiji events are anticipated to broaden participation and impact.
– Beyond oxygen, integrating health worker training, early screening, and strengthened referral pathways will help convert equipment and services into lasting improvements in child survival.
How to get involved
Individuals and organizations interested in supporting Cure Kids Fiji can look for opportunities to donate, sponsor future Fiji500 rides, or participate in upcoming community fundraising events. Details and updates are typically announced by Cure Kids Fiji through their ongoing programs and annual reports.
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