Questions have been raised over whether people held in correctional facilities are included in the needle-syringe programme aimed at preventing HIV transmission.
This was raised by Opposition MP Mareca Baba during 2026 Fiji Women's Practice Parliament saying 18 people tested positive for HIV upon admission to one correctional facility during a 60-day period between April and May this year.
Baba says that between April and May this year, 42 Fijians were admitted to one correctional facility over a period of 60 days.
Of these, 32 were under the age of 40, five were under 50, two were between 51 and 65, and two were just 19 years old.
Baba adds 36 of the 42 people received prison sentences of less than 12 months.
She says people in custody must have access to HIV testing, support and treatment, as they eventually return to their communities.
Baba is calling on the Government to provide more funding for healthcare, rehabilitation and treatment services inside correctional facilities.
Insert:Baba on HIV issues 26th Oct
Baba is also calling for improved prison conditions and reduced overcrowding, saying minor offenders who do not pose a danger to the community should be diverted into treatment programmes instead of being sent to prison.
She says bail and remand practices should also be reviewed to ensure people are not held on remand longer than necessary.
Baba says a national HIV response must include people in prison and cannot stop at the gates of correctional facilities.
