UNAIDS Pacific Goodwill Ambassador Ratu Epeli Nailatikau says the increase in HIV infections in Fiji is a stark reminder of the need for proactive and adaptive strategies.

Ratu Epeli said this during the World AIDS Day in Nasinu on Friday, urging stakeholders to renew their commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS.

“Today I urge all stakeholders-governments, international organisations, civil society, and community leaders to renew their commitment to this cause,” he said.

“We must provide communities especially those in heavily impacted areas like Fiji, with the resources, support, and autonomy they need to lead this fight. In addition to resource allocation, it is vital to create platforms for sharing knowledge and best practices.

“Let us remember that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not just a medical challenge but just as importantly it is very much a development challenge and taken together it is a severe test of our humanity.

“By letting communities lead, we embrace a more compassionate, inclusive, and effective approach to ending this epidemic where no one is left behind.”