Rising NCD Concerns Spark Calls for Health Reforms in Fiji

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) have become a significant point of concern for citizens in the Western Division, as highlighted during the public consultations for the 2025-2026 National Budget held recently. Participants expressed increasing alarm about the rising rates of NCDs, urging the government to enhance health interventions and bolster public health services to combat this critical issue.

Concerns regarding NCDs reflected a broader context, as attendees also discussed pressing matters affecting their communities, including the need for improved rural road infrastructure—particularly for schoolchildren and daily commuters. Additional critical issues raised included the cost of living, youth unemployment, and the pivotal role of strong support for small businesses. Community members highlighted the government’s recent minimum wage increase to $5 per hour, questioning its sufficiency and the strategies in place to tackle the ongoing issue of brain drain among professionals.

Responding to these concerns, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, affirmed the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges. He reassured the public that efforts are underway to strengthen public health systems and enhance road infrastructure while focusing on stabilizing the economy through fiscal reforms, increasing household incomes, and supporting critical social services.

Professor Prasad encouraged all Fijians to actively engage in the budget consultation process, emphasizing that their input is pivotal as the government prepares to present the 2025-2026 National Budget on June 27. This consultative approach aims to create a more inclusive and responsive government, thereby fostering hope for a brighter future as the nation addresses its health and infrastructure challenges.

This proactive engagement in the budget formulation signifies a positive step toward a more participatory governance model, where citizens feel empowered to voice their needs and contribute to shaping the health services and policies that affect their lives directly.