Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says healthy people are the foundation of economic growth and national resilience.
Speaking at the opening of the 76th World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee Meeting for the Western Pacific in Nadi last night, Mr Rabuka said the week-long forum comes at a critical time for the region.
Senior health officials from 38 Member States are attending the meeting — nearly double the 17 members when Fiji last hosted in 1984.
Mr Rabuka highlighted that while the region has made progress, the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health issues, and the lingering effects of COVID-19 and climate change continue to strain communities.
“NCDs account for over 80 percent of deaths in Fiji,” he said.
“These diseases weaken our workforce and hinder social and economic development.”
He said Fiji is strengthening its health system through legislative reforms to limit unhealthy food marketing, healthier school environments, and expanded mental health services, including training in psychological first aid.
However, he cautioned that stigma, underfunding, and data gaps remain major barriers.
Calling for targeted international financing for Small Island Developing States, the Prime Minister said climate change, food insecurity, and geographic isolation make health challenges more costly and complex.
“Healthy people drive economic growth; healthy communities build resilience; and healthy systems protect us from future crises,” he said.
“The path to a healthy Pacific lies in justice, empowerment, equity, and compassion.”
