Diabetes Fiji has initiated an ambitious one-year community health project in the Naiyalayala district, focusing on five targeted villages to enhance lifestyles and improve early detection of non-communicable diseases in remote regions. This initiative is fully funded by the Fiji Water Foundation, with valuable support from Asco Motors and Kontiki.
Program Coordinator Tima Niumataiwalu explained that the initiative encompasses the villages of Naseyani, Nananu, Rabulu, Dauniivi, and Togovere, where community members will collaborate closely with Fiji Water Ambassadors to encourage healthier living practices.
Initial baseline health screenings conducted in December revealed a low turnout, signaling a critical need for boosting community engagement. In response, five peer support groups have been established—one in each village—where trained peer leaders have been equipped with screening tools and essential skills for recording and reporting health data back to Diabetes Fiji.
To further bolster community health efforts, Niumataiwalu noted that these leaders received training on how to access support from government bodies, with assistance from the Ministries of Agriculture and Social Welfare, alongside partners like Empower Pacific. Communication challenges, particularly for remote villages such as Naseyani and Nananu, have significantly improved following the recent installation of Starlink connectivity provided by the Fiji Water Foundation.
Diabetes Fiji Executive Director Kini Marawa emphasized that this project aligns with the organization’s mission to serve underserved communities in the interior of Viti Levu. He highlighted how the initiative supports the World Health Organization’s goal of Universal Health Coverage and is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals aimed at ensuring no one is left behind.
The project is being implemented through the Tavua and Rakiraki medical subdivisions, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. Marawa underscored that the long-term success of this initiative relies heavily on strong and sustained community involvement, which is vital for the betterment of public health in these regions. This signifies a hopeful step towards improving health outcomes and fostering resilience within these remote communities.