Fiji’s rising HIV cases spark call for early education and testing

Fiji is experiencing a concerning rise in HIV cases, placing it among the countries with the highest infection rates per capita in the world.

This urgent issue was highlighted on fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan, where contestants of the Hibiscus Festival 2025 Presented by FMF Queen pageant called for greater openness, education, and accessible testing to safeguard communities, especially the nation’s youth.

Miss Emerald Developments, Phoebe Madden says raising awareness about HIV is essential, particularly within families where such topics are still often avoided.

She shared a contrasting experience from her own family, where discussions about HIV are open and protective.

Miss Playland Fantasy, Talei May says youths today need to be more careful, as many are unaware, or take risks without considering the consequences.

Miss I-Tech Pacific, Salanieta Galo highlighted that stigma and fear of judgement stop many people from getting tested or seeking help for HIV.

She stressed the importance of breaking this taboo by encouraging parents to have open conversations with their children about HIV, sex, and drugs to create safe spaces for honest dialogue.

Miss Merchant Finance, Maria Ali highlighted the critical role of education and access to support services, saying that the rise in HIV cases is due to the lack of knowledge about prevention.

She emphasised that families need to talk about HIV as a normal part of life, while communities must provide open and confidential counselling and testing facilities.

Miss Yue Lai Hotel, Shyna Lata raised concern about the influence of drug use and new risky trends like bluetoothing among youth, linking these behaviours to increased HIV transmission.

She stressed that education must start early, both at home and in schools, so that children and young people understand the risks and how to protect themselves.

The contestants say that breaking stigma, encouraging open talks, and providing education and testing are vital to slowing Fiji’s rising HIV cases.