The Ministry of Health and Medical Services will now lead the implementation of the Fiji National Food and Nutrition Security Policy following a formal handover from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways.
The policy aims to improve access to nutritious food, strengthen food systems, and end malnutrition through coordinated government action.
The handover was described as a significant step toward greater inter-ministerial coordination in addressing food and nutrition issues affecting communities across the country.
Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna handed over the policy document to Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, highlighting years of collaboration, consultation, and research behind its development.
He added that the Agriculture Ministry would continue to support the monitoring and evaluation of the policy’s objectives.
Dr Lalabalavu said the policy provided a clear framework for ministries to work together, a shift from the siloed approaches of the past.
“I view this handing over, not just handing over the policy, it’s a sharing of responsibility whereby the policy will guide relevant ministries on their roles and responsibilities to work together to ensure that Fiji’s policy on food and nutrition security is well maintained and well kept.”
He noted that the Health Ministry would work closely with Agriculture and other stakeholders, using data and evidence to inform implementation and access outcomes.
