With the latest new HIV statistics showing a near doubling of new cases diagnosed each year from 2021, 2022 and 2023, and this is expected to continue in 2024, the Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru is urging the youths of Naviyago Village in Lautoka not to indulge in illegal activities such as drug use and to protect themselves from the increasing HIV/AIDS cases.
Saukuru highlighted that the use of injectable drugs has been identified as the contributing factor to the rise of HIV/AIDS cases in Fiji.
The Minister says refraining from such activities will benefit youths and their community.
He also discussed the programs offered by the Ministry, which will allow youths to study short courses and earn for themselves. He says the Ministry is committed to supporting and empowering youths of the nation by raising awareness on the importance of health and social issues affecting youths. Saukuru adds that he is inspired by the initiative taken by the Naviyago villagers in hosting fundraising to construct a proper tar-sealed road.
Meanwhile, the villagers are looking forward to completing the initiative as travelling gets difficult for them during rainy days.
