Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu
The growing link between illicit drug use and rising HIV cases has been identified as a behavioural issue requiring urgent attention, says Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu.
Speaking during Day One of the Multi-Cultural Week hosted by the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Mr Tudravu stressed the importance of collective action in addressing the escalating concern.
The panel discussion, themed “Our Stories, Our Realities in the Pacific Islands. Combatting HIV and Illicit Drug Use Across Communities,” brought together key stakeholders to examine the intersection between substance abuse and public health challenges.
Mr Tudravu acknowledged that while he is not a health expert, behavioural factors play a significant role in drug use, which in turn contributes to rising HIV cases.
“It is ever so important to act now, for the sake of our future generation, and to protect the next generation from being born into a life that was not their choice, but the decision of others,” Mr Tudravu said.
“To read the headlines on the high number of babies born with HIV is indeed heart wrenching and reinforces the need to work together. While we acknowledge our diversity in culture, it must not however impinge our ability to tackle issues facing Fiji and the Pacific.
“The reality is that drugs is threatening our cultures and identities, which makes me worry about what the future will look for, for our children and grandchildren.”
Mr Tudravu also acknowledged FNU’s role in early prevention and awareness, noting that such platforms allow professionals to come together and address shared challenges.
“Multi-Cultural Week is a celebration, but it is also a reminder. A reminder that unity in diversity is not just a slogan—it is a responsibility,” he said.
“I have been reliably advised by a senior official from the United States Homeland Security Investigation Department, that if we act together now, we can change the narrative.
“Fiji is for now, considered a “door of opportunity”, meaning the syndicates are testing the waters so to speak. While there a lot of narratives out there about the dire situation in Fiji, it is still controllable and manageable.”
Chief Guest Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu with FNU’s Acting dean CMNHS Dr Amelia Turagabeci, Head of School of Nursing Dr Elina Veitamana, Associate Dean Learning and Teaching Professor Jayantha Weerasinghe, Associate Dean TVET Dr Aruna Devi. Samoan Deputy High Commissioner Belinda Filo-Tafunai and panelists during the Day 1 of the Multi-Cultural Week at Tamavua Campus.
During the discussion, Acting Chief Executive of the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council, Josua Naisele, highlighted peer pressure as the leading factor influencing youth involvement in drugs.
“What we teach at home can be different from what our children do when out of our homes. You would be surprised that there are children who are doing drugs while none of the parents take drugs,” Mr Naisele said.
Meanwhile, general practitioner at FNU, Henry Waqa, raised concerns about changing sexual behaviours and low condom usage despite ongoing awareness campaigns.
“I think the sexual landscape of our society has changed. Back then HIV was associated with marginalised group. That has changed now with human rights advocacy.
“Despite condom advocacy, we have a large number that do not take heed of this advocacy.”
