The front page of The Fiji Times for September 9 highlights the insights of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) commander regarding the army’s continued relevance in the country. Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai emphasizes that the army’s role extends beyond just “uniforms and guns.” In an interview on The Lens @177, he addressed discussions surrounding the productivity of the RFMF.
In another significant report on Page 11, it was noted that Fiji’s total domestic exports for 2023 amount to $1.3 billion, largely driven by agricultural commodities, as stated by Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Vatimi Rayalu, in Parliament.
The article also discusses the concerning issue of suicides in Fiji, revealing that the highest number of suicide and attempted suicide cases was recorded in 2019, with 244 incidents. The Western Division has reported the most cases each year for the past six years. Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu urged Fijians to engage in discussions about suicide prevention during his address in Parliament.
According to Dr. Lalabalavu, the World Health Organization indicates that approximately 800,000 individuals die by suicide annually, equating to one every 40 seconds. In Fiji, from 2016 to 2021, there were a total of 1,276 recorded cases of suicide and attempted suicide, averaging around 213 cases per year, with about half resulting in death.
Dr. Lalabalavu called for collective efforts in addressing this issue. He announced that in commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2024, the theme will be “change the narrative with the call to action, start the conversation.” He stressed the importance of transforming perceptions surrounding suicide from silence and stigma to openness and support.
Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma highlighted the alarming statistics, noting that Fiji allegedly has one of the highest rates of suicide globally, with a Fijian attempting suicide every 36 hours, including a tragic case involving a seven-year-old child.
Addressing the suicide crisis in Fiji necessitates a comprehensive strategy that involves enhancing mental health services, fostering public awareness, and removing stigmas preventing individuals from seeking assistance. The call to “change the narrative” seeks to cultivate an environment where people can discuss their difficulties without fear of judgment, aiming for a future with fewer losses to this ongoing tragedy. World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a crucial reminder of the collective duty to build a more understanding and supportive community.