FRUITFUL DISCUSSIONS WITH MINISTRY OF HEALTH

A delegation led by Ms Ragigia Dawai, the Director General of the Fiji Red Cross Society, made an official courtesy visit earlier this week to the Honorable Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, and Permanent Secretary, Dr James Fong.

The purpose of the visit was to provide a comprehensive overview of the Society’s ongoing initiatives and its key areas of focus for the year.

Accompanying Ms Dawai were key members of her team, including Manager Programmes, Ms. Makeleta Liebregts, and Health & Care Coordinator, Ms. Salote Maramaciriciri.

During the engaging presentation, the Fiji Red Cross Society highlighted its integral role in various community programs and initiatives. Discussions covered a wide spectrum of topics, including the drafting of the Fiji Red Cross Legislation, collaboration with the National Blood Services to strengthen blood donor registration during emergencies, the impactful Club 25 Program encouraging blood donation among individuals aged 17 to 25, Safety and Community First Aid Awareness campaigns, the successful launch of the Rotuma Hospital, insights into the escalating HIV cases and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) within communities, and the successful implementation of the Community Based Surveillance (CBS) program.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the virtual presentation by Ms Lisa Natoli, Health Technical Lead from the Australian Red Cross – Emergency Services Queensland. Ms Natoli provided an insightful evaluation of the Community Based Surveillance Program, which has been instrumental in bolstering the Fiji Red Cross Society’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities. The program has been generously supported by the Australian Government.

The meeting not only provided an invaluable platform to discuss and showcase the Fiji Red Cross Society’s vital contributions but also strengthened the existing partnership between the National Society and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. Ms Dawai expressed gratitude for the opportunity to directly engage with the Honorable Minister and officials, offering them a firsthand glimpse into the impactful work undertaken by the Fiji Red Cross Society.

The Fiji Red Cross Society remains committed to its mission of providing humanitarian assistance and fostering community well-being. The fruitful discussion underscores the organization’s dedication to collaborative efforts for the betterment of Fiji’s population.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Ms Luisa Turaga
Communications Coordinator
luisa.turaga@redcross.com.fj
+679 9987949