The Fijian Embassy in China has commended Republic of the Fiji Military Forces Captain Eroni Duaibe’s efforts in helping Chinese authorities battle coronavirus (COVID-19).

Mr Duaibe is a Fijian PhD student studying in Wuhan – the epicentre of the COVID-19 outbreak.

He and eight other Fijians are safe and healthy in Wuhan.

Mr Duaibe joined Chinese authorities to distribute rations to affected residents in the province.

In its situation report, the Fijian Embassy in Beijing said: “Mr Duaibe had assisted some of the authorities today (27th February) in delivering free vegetables to nearby residents in his community.

“The voluntary work by Mr Duaibe is commendable as he has shown a true spirit of service to those in need in his community,” the report highlighted.

Mr Duaibe said in a video that his good impression of Wuhan had not changed despite the outbreak.

He said the lockdown “brought out a lot of good in people”.

Mr Duaibe has been a saving grace to Fijians and Pacific Island students in Wuhan by cycling around the city to visit students and deliver masks, hand sanitizers, thermometers and water to them.

He said they were optimistic about the crisis ending, and were planning a trip to Suzhou or Kunming after the lockdown.

Meanwhile, the Fijian Government has made budgeted provisions to prepare and support the Ministry of Health and relevant authorities.

“We have been holding a number of meetings and briefing meetings with our stakeholders, medical superintendents, and regular engagements to map out plans, understanding the resources that we have and what we need to be able to put aside for this outbreak,” Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete said.

“That’s the reason as we prepare, we don’t close hospitals, children are vaccinated, and blood test continue.”

Edited by Ivamere Nataro

Feedback: inoke.robonu@fijisun.com.fj ; fonua.talei@fijisun.com.fj