ITAUKEI Affairs Minister Ifereimi Vasu has called for a united national response to the growing concern of HIV among Fiji’s youth, warning the issue could have serious implications for the country’s development.
Mr Vasu said the current situation is not just a concern for the iTaukei community, but for the entire nation.
“With the current situation, everyone should be concerned, not just the iTaukei,” he said.
“We are concerned. It is a nationwide issue in Fiji.”
Mr Vasu said a large number of young people affected by HIV could disrupt Fiji’s future progress because they play a crucial role in carrying out the country’s development plans.
“If the majority of our youth are affected by HIV, it will severely impact our development goals.
“These young people are the very ones we are counting on to lead and implement these plans.”
The minister was asked his thoughts on the prevalence of the illness, especially among the iTaukei community.
To address the issue, Mr Vasu said there was a need to develop and carry out targeted awareness and prevention strategies.
“We have reached out to the vanua for their support in raising awareness within communities.”
The minister added that young people must be at the heart of the national response.
“If we want to help steer young people away from drug use and prevent the spread of HIV, then our youth must play a key role.”
He said support must also come from provincial administrators, village leaders and families.
“It is now everyone’s responsibility, from the village headmen right down to the families.
“As we see it now, the situation is extremely concerning.”
He said it was time for all Fijians to come together and act decisively.
“We must prioritise our young people,” Mr Vasu said.
“They will have a significant influence on the direction of our nation.”
