Counterstroke Fiji has identified a significant concern in the nation: a lack of awareness among many individuals regarding where to find support for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). To address this issue, President Elizabeth Fong has announced the organization’s commitment to strengthening the Fiji Wellness Coalition. This coalition brings together various non-government organizations working at the grassroots level to confront the rising incidence of NCDs within local communities.
Fong emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating that by merging resources and expertise, the coalition can enhance education, support, and awareness. This initiative aims to empower citizens to make healthier lifestyle choices and reduce the impact of NCDs throughout the country. The coalition is dedicated not only to informing the public but also to equipping communities with the necessary tools to take control of their health, promote preventive practices, and nurture a robust culture of wellness across Fiji.
Additionally, Fong highlighted the significance of observing key events such as World Diabetes Day, which provides a platform to draw public attention to health matters. She intends for the coalition to use such occasions to spread vital information about other health issues, including strokes. Fong stressed that combating NCDs is a collective responsibility, urging community members to actively participate in prevention and awareness initiatives as these diseases can affect individuals of all ages.
Margaret Reid-Rounds, Chair of the NGO Coalition, reinforced these ideas by underscoring the necessity of sharing information to boost awareness within communities. She expressed their strong belief in collaboration, which is symbolized in the coalition’s logo representing unity and joint health endeavors. By linking various organizations and resources, the coalition aims to ensure that accurate health information reaches a wide audience, thereby empowering local leaders and encouraging joint actions to effectively prevent and manage NCDs.
This cooperative strategy not only marks a hopeful advancement in addressing public health challenges but also fosters community involvement in healthier living, presenting an optimistic view for the wellbeing of the people of Fiji.