Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka reaffirmed the Fiji Government’s commitment to improving care for Lupus patients, promising better access, awareness, and training for frontline healthcare workers across the country.

Speaking at the “Dancing with Lupus” annual fundraiser in Suva, PM Rabuka acknowledged the silent struggle of Lupus patients- highlighting the disease’s invisible yet debilitating effects. He described the need for early detection as vital and confirmed that training for nurses and specialists would be strengthened to improve diagnosis and care.

“Lupus might be invisible to the naked eye, but the pain, fatigue, cost of treatment, and emotional toll are very real,” he said.

Key Commitments by Government:

• Training for frontline workers, particularly in early detection and chronic care.
• Inclusion of Lupus in Fiji’s national NCD strategy, wellness programs, and chronic illness frameworks.
• Expanded access to rheumatology services beyond Suva, targeting rural, western, and maritime communities.
• Review of the Essential Medicines List to include vital Lupus treatments like hydroxychloroquine and immunosuppressants.
• Public-private partnerships to improve medication affordability and supply chain reliability.
• Formal collaboration with the Lupus Foundation through MOUs and potential grant support.
• Awareness campaigns in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings to increase public understanding.
• Patient representation in national health policy consultations to ensure inclusive care planning.

PM Rabuka praised Lupus patients as “brave Lupus warriors” and expressed admiration for their strength, saying their resilience inspires national leadership.

“As your Prime Minister, I reaffirm our commitment to a healthcare system where no one feels invisible or forgotten; especially those living with complex chronic illnesses like Lupus.”