FOR many Fijians living with diabetes in rural and remote communities, access to care remains one of the greatest challenges — not because services do not exist, but because reaching them often does.
That challenge was set to ease following the handover of a vehicle from Kontiki Finance Ltd to Diabetes Fiji, a move expected to significantly strengthen the organisation’s outreach efforts in hard-to-reach areas across the country.
Speaking at the recent handover, Kontiki Finance human resources manager Leeanne Dalton said the vehicle would support Diabetes Fiji’s community programs by enabling health workers to travel directly into villages where distance, transport costs and limited mobility have long prevented patients from attending regular clinics.
She said for many families this had resulted in delayed treatment, missed check-ups and an increased risk of complications.
Mrs Dalton said the initiative was driven by more than corporate responsibility, reflecting the company’s core values and its commitment to creating a positive and lasting impact in the communities it serves.
“At Kontiki, our purpose goes beyond providing financial services,” she said.
“It is about standing alongside the community and supporting organisations that are improving lives every day.
“Through this partnership with Diabetes Fiji, we hope to help ensure care reaches those who need it most, regardless of where they live.
“Creating positive impact is not just a statement for us; it guides how we operate.”
She said healthier and better-supported communities benefited everyone.
“With the additional vehicle, Diabetes Fiji will be able to expand its outreach visits, conduct screenings, deliver education sessions and provide follow-up care directly within communities that have traditionally been underserved.”
Diabetes Fiji executive director Kini Marawa welcomed the support, describing it as both timely and impactful.
“This vehicle will greatly enhance our ability to reach people living with diabetes, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas,” Mr Marawa said.
“We are grateful to partners such as Kontiki Finance who recognise that access to care is critical and are willing to support our mission in a practical and meaningful way.”
He acknowledged the continued support of corporate and community partners, noting that such partnerships were vital in enabling Diabetes Fiji to sustain its nationwide work.
