Health Ministry says it is ready to introduce a sterile needle and syringe programme to combat the country’s HIV epidemic but is being prevented from doing so by existing laws.
Minister for Health Dr Atonio Lalabalavu made the revelation while tabling the HIV/AIDS (Amendment) Bill 2026 in Parliament yesterday.
“We all know that Fiji is experiencing a generalised HIV epidemic, with injecting drug use contributing significantly to HIV infections,” Dr Lalabalavu said.
He said preparations for harm-reduction measures, including providing sterile needles and syringes, had already been completed.
“The urgency, therefore, is not a question of resources or preparedness — the necessary commodities, service providers, and operational arrangements are in place.
“The immediate constraint is the existing legal framework.”
The proposed amendments would give the Minister authority to direct the Ministry, the HIV/AIDS Board or an authorised person to implement a Harm Reduction Programme.
This could include providing sterile needles and syringes, condoms, pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis, facilities for safely returning used equipment, counselling and awareness materials.
The programme could also refer people to treatment, rehabilitation and mental health services.
Dr Lalabalavu said the legislation would provide legal protection to people delivering or receiving authorised harm-reduction services when acting in good faith.
However, he stressed the amendments would not legalise illicit drugs.
“They do not decriminalise drugs or reduce existing penalties for drug-related offences,” he said.
“The amendments are directed at providing the legal authority necessary to implement the evidence-informed HIV harm reduction measures.”
Dr Lalabalavu sought Parliament’s approval for the Bill to proceed under Standing Order 51 because of the urgency of Fiji’s HIV situation.
The Bill is expected to be debated in Parliament tomorrow.
