Diabetes Fiji Inc. has kicked off its Northern Division outreach with a meaningful and impactful start in the Bua Medical Subdivision, focusing on strengthening frontline care and empowering rural communities in the fight against diabetes.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services; particularly the Divisional Medical Officer, Medical Superintendent, and their dedicated teams – Diabetes Fiji delivered vital Diabetes Foot Care and Wound Care training for primary health care providers at Nabouwalu. The training focused on early detection, treatment, and prevention of diabetic foot complications; a major concern in Fiji’s rural health landscape.

A Foot Care Service Audit was also carried out at Nabouwalu Hospital to evaluate and improve service delivery for people living with diabetes (PLWD). The findings will inform strategic improvements in diabetic care across the subdivision.

Later in the day, the team visited two long-standing Community Diabetes Peer Support Groups in Makolei and Naruwai. Despite the end of the formal peer support program in 2018, the dedication of peer leaders and village health workers, such as Ms. Filomena, has kept the spirit of the initiative alive.

Ms. Filomena, using simple bar and line graphs, tracks each member’s capillary blood glucose (CBG) levels; an innovative grassroots approach that has empowered community members to monitor and manage their own health. Makolei now reports only three active diabetes cases; with no complications- a remarkable achievement for a rural village.

A poignant moment came with a reunion between Diabetes Fiji staff and a former Peer Group Leader after four years; reviving hope and renewed momentum for grassroots diabetes support.

“Despite the resource challenges, this visit reminds us of why we serve,” said a member of the Diabetes Fiji team. “The strength and courage of these communities; especially our peer leaders and VHWs – are inspiring. They are true champions of health at the grassroots level.”

Looking Ahead:
Day one of the Northern Tour reaffirmed Diabetes Fiji’s mission: to support early intervention, promote lifestyle education, and enable long-term wellbeing for PLWD through strong partnerships and evidence-based, community-led approaches. The team looks forward to continuing engagements across the Northern Division.