This evening, Fiji opened its doors to dignitaries and health officials from the Western Pacific for the 76th World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee Meeting. In opening the meeting, Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka emphasized the vital need for collaboration in tackling pressing health issues affecting the region.

With representatives from 38 member states gathered, serving over 1.9 billion people, the focus is on several critical topics, including non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the mental health fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the troubling rise of substance abuse disorders. Hon. Rabuka highlighted how these challenges are intertwined with lifestyle changes, urbanization, and the impacts of climate change.

Reflecting on the strides made since Fiji last hosted the meeting in 1984, he acknowledged that some issues, such as women’s health and access to essential care, continue to be major concerns. “NCDs account for over 80% of deaths in Fiji, which presents significant challenges for our development,” he pointed out, stressing the increasing vulnerability of adolescents to mental health issues.

In response to these challenges, Fiji has enacted health laws to restrict unhealthy food marketing and has made investments in mental health services. However, Hon. Rabuka recognized that stigma and lack of funding still pose significant barriers. He urged for international support to assist small island developing states (SIDS) in managing rising health costs.

He introduced the inspiring idea of creating an “Ocean of Peace,” which advocates for unity and inclusive development as the cornerstones for building healthier societies.

Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific, echoed these sentiments, underlining the importance of unity and compassion in health initiatives throughout the region.

The gathering is especially notable, marking the first time the Pacific has hosted the meeting in over a decade, which emphasizes the region’s critical role in global health. Dr. Piukala reinforced the need to empower Pacific voices in health discussions and outlined the week’s agenda, which covers NCDs, climate change, and preparedness for health emergencies.

The resurgence of HIV in areas like Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and Fiji was also a point of discussion, and Dr. Piukala praised Fiji’s proactive measures to combat this issue. Throughout the week, the spirit of talanoa—open and respectful dialogue—will be a guiding principle as participants work together towards a healthier Western Pacific Region.

In closing, Dr. Piukala reminded everyone of a poignant Fijian proverb: “Na liga e dua, e sega ni rawa, ni laveta, na vatu levu”—a single hand cannot lift a heavy stone, but together, we can. This sentiment is a beautiful reminder of the power of collective effort in overcoming challenges.