Record-high HIV cases in Fiji prompt national wake-up call: Assistant Minister

Fiji recorded its highest number of new Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections last year, with the Western and Central divisions registering unprecedented increases.

Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa highlighted the concern as thousands of Fijians prepare to mark World AIDS Day today.

The latest UNAIDS 2025 Global AIDS Update report shows a tenfold increase in the number of people living with HIV in the country over the past decade.

The report, titled AIDS: Crisis and the power to transform, shows that since 2014, the number of people living with HIV in Fiji has risen from fewer than 500 to an estimated 5900 in 2024.

Additionally, new diagnoses have tripled in the last year alone, from 2023 to 2024.

Mr Ravunawa said the figures reflect not only a public health challenge but a widening social and economic burden.

“Behind every case is a Fijian life — a worker, student, parent or young person,” Mr Ravunawa said.

“This is not someone else’s problem. This is our collective responsibility as a nation.”

He said Fiji must urgently confront the rise in HIV cases with honesty, unity and decisive action.

He warned that infections, now the highest ever recorded in Fiji, pose a serious threat to families, communities and the country’s long-term economic stability.

“HIV is no longer a silent issue. It is growing, spreading, and it demands immediate attention from every Fijian,” he said.

“This is a wake-up call for our nation — for parents, youths, churches, workplaces, community leaders and decision-makers.”

He stressed that the fight against HIV requires the active involvement of all sectors, including Government, faith-based organisations, chiefs, civil society, schools, youth groups, employers and grassroots leaders.

“The tools are available, the treatment works and support exists,” he said. “No Fijian should die of HIV in 2025.”

Mr Ravunawa said the crisis is not only a health concern but one that affects household stability, workforce productivity, community resilience and national development.

“When HIV rises, families suffer, communities weaken and the nation pays the price,” he said.

“We must protect our young people — they are Fiji’s future.”