AGP Executive Report

HIV Crisis: Fiji’s HIV epidemic is surging fast, with a 14-fold rise in five years and officials pointing to risky methamphetamine injecting drug use as a key driver, as the outbreak spreads beyond people who inject drugs. Human Trafficking & Scams: Over 270 potential trafficking and forced labour cases were investigated in Fiji in five years, with authorities warning that digital recruitment scams are making exploitation harder to spot. Labour Abuse: Fiji is tightening protections for foreign workers after reports of wage theft, poor conditions and contract issues, including stronger checks on employment agents and documents. Child Rights & Disability Inclusion: Fiji launched its first baseline study on the rights of children with disabilities, urging action beyond laws—focused on accessible services, protection and real inclusion. Child Safety: A mother in Labasa is demanding accountability after her daughter suffered a fractured leg at school, saying the investigation should be shared in writing and disciplinary action taken. Culture & Community: Miss India South Pacific debuts in Suva, while Shangri-La Yanuca Island hosts a Chinese arts exchange for 100+ Coral Coast students. Lifestyle & Sports: Drua head coach Brad Mooar says he wants to know each player’s “why” and build a people-first culture; Fiji boxer Jasmine Daunakamakama heads into her Commonwealth Games semifinal aiming to stay true to herself. Business & Development: Damodar Group plans an $80m Damodar City Nadi project, promising jobs and a new retail-tourism hub. Maritime Safety: MSAF will investigate a vessel engine failure involving six health workers after all seven were safely rescued.

Disability Rights: Fiji’s Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is urging sustained, well-funded action for children with disabilities, saying laws alone won’t work—its baseline study maps gaps across education, health, social protection and governance. Education & Jobs: Teaching graduates say they’re still waiting for school postings, leaving some to take other work while hundreds remain unplaced. Child Protection: The Women, Children and Social Protection Ministry is pushing village and district leaders to treat child protection as a top priority, warning of abuse, neglect and violence. Consumer & Digital Safety: A proposed FCCC Bill would strengthen consumer protection and expand powers to tackle online scams and unfair contract terms. HIV in Communities: Kadavu women are calling for urgent action as HIV cases rise, stressing stigma-free testing, education and support. Digital Future: Pacific ministers endorsed AI principles at the Pacific Fibre Conference, linking safe, ethical AI to Pacific cultural values and better connectivity. Politics & Governance: NextGen Alliance launches on a “people before politics” message, promising better coordination across ministries. Ocean & Culture: The Polynesian Voyaging Society is adding a year to the Moananuiākea Voyage after updated El Niño risks.

TVET & Jobs: Pacific Polytech says it will produce 2,000+ trades graduates by December, with Cohort 6 celebrating 101 Northern Division students across agriculture and trades like plumbing, electrical fitting, carpentry and automotive. Teaching Shortage: New BEd graduates say they’re still waiting for school postings, with some pushed into other work while 202 registered teachers remain unplaced. Politics & Governance: NextGen Alliance launches on a “people before politics” message, while Opportunity Party leader Qiulae Wong signals she’ll only support a coalition if core values aren’t compromised. Rights & Inclusion: Fiji’s Human Rights body is launching a national baseline study on the rights of children with disabilities, aiming to shape future services and protections. Child Protection: The Women, Children and Social Protection Minister urges village and district leaders to treat child protection as a top priority. Consumer & Digital Safety: A proposed FCCC Bill would strengthen consumer protection and expand powers to tackle online scams. Health Watch: Diabetes Fiji says funding pleas are being ignored as diabetes prevalence rises, and Kadavu women call for urgent action as HIV cases increase. Ocean & Climate: Fiji-backed Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves gains another signatory as Solomon Islands joins; meanwhile, the Moananuiākea Voyage is extended by a year due to NOAA-linked El Niño risks. Diplomacy: Fiji reports no Fijians affected by Japan’s earthquake and Germany’s new ambassador pledges deeper cooperation on climate and education. Workplace Harassment: Fiji Women’s Rights Movement warns the corporate sector still lacks true zero tolerance for harassment after concerns over a convicted executive’s hiring.

HIV Prevention Alert: UNAIDS says one-in-four people living with HIV worldwide still aren’t on lifesaving treatment, with Asia Pacific hit hardest—warning that funding cuts and weaker community-led services could reverse progress. Digital Learning Boost: DP World and LiteHaus International have donated 450 laptops to Fiji schools, easing pressure on classrooms and helping Year 12–13 students with research and typed assignments. Early Warning for Cyclones & Floods: Fiji is strengthening its multi-hazard early warning system through a CAP workshop and national dialogue, aiming for faster, clearer alerts to communities. Clean Water for Villagers: Two new borehole projects in Lomaloma deliver safe water to 400+ people, including schools, a hospital and households in drought-prone areas. Youth & Culture in Education: Taveuni is being used as a “living classroom” for Australian students, mixing village life, traditions, conservation and local livelihoods. Health & Culture Clash: Diabetes amputations are rising as some patients delay care for herbal and faith healing—health officials urge earlier treatment. Sports & Community: Fijian Drua appoints Brad Mooar as head coach for 2027, while Labasa leaders push community action in the fight against drugs. Tourism Momentum: Fiji recorded its highest-ever June visitor arrivals, led by Australia, as new resorts and culture-led experiences expand the travel mix.

Digital Learning Boost: DP World and LiteHaus International have donated 450 laptops to Fiji schools, including 30 for Suva Grammar, aiming to ease pressure on resources and strengthen students’ digital skills. Early Warnings for All: Fiji, with UNDP and the National Disaster Risk Management Office, is running a CAP workshop and national dialogue to improve multi-hazard early warning systems and coordination. Health & Culture Clash: Diabetes amputations are rising as some patients delay treatment for herbal and faith-based healing, with officials urging community-level education through village health workers. Education on the Move: Taveuni is being turned into a “living classroom” for Australian students, blending village life, Fijian traditions, and nature-based learning. Budget Made Clear: A Citizens’ Guide to the 2026–2027 National Budget is being launched in three languages to explain how public funds are collected and spent. Community Water Upgrade: Two new borehole projects in Lomaloma will deliver safe water to over 400 villagers, supporting schools, health services and households. School Sports Rules Under Fire: QVS principal Waliki Nasau questions consultation over a new Deans recruitment rule for rugby, warning it may affect school identity and long-term development. Pacific Diplomacy Watch: Nauru’s planned Jerusalem embassy move is being framed by an academic as part of shifting Pacific foreign policy choices.

Elections Watch: Fiji has budgeted $58.06m for the 2026-27 general election, a possible referendum, and Elections Office operations, including $23.24m for running costs and $14.82m for Election Day expenses, with voter verification updates due next month. Youth & Work: Kadavu’s provincial leaders warn that better education, jobs and overseas work are fuelling a youth exodus, pushing the island to rethink how it keeps young people through agriculture, fisheries, forestry and tourism. Safe Water Push: Two new borehole projects in Lomaloma will deliver safe water to 400+ villagers, including school and hospital supplies, with a $330,000 government investment. Community Safety: Labasa’s crime prevention carnival highlights a tough message: the fight against drugs can’t be left to police—communities, families and traditional leaders must step up. Sport & Pride: The Fijian Drua appoints Brad Mooar as Men’s head coach on a two-year deal, aiming to keep a “special brand” of Fijian rugby as the team builds for 2027. Elder Care: Calls in Lautoka urge earlier planning for old age, warning many people invest in assets but forget health and independence. Tourism Momentum: Fiji recorded its highest-ever June arrivals at 98,522, led by Australia, as new resorts and routes keep visitor numbers climbing. Regional Leadership: Dr Anna Naupa is named MSG director-general, with Rabuka saying the process was merit-based and backed by gender-positive policies. Luxury Stays: Six Senses Fiji expands with two new private residences for 2026, targeting families and multi-generational getaways.

Tourism Boom: Fiji hit a record 98,522 visitor arrivals in June, up 6.3% on June last year, with Australia still the biggest source market and new resorts, routes and community experiences helping drive growth. Community Safety: Labasa leaders say the drug fight can’t be left to police alone, urging families, chiefs and faith groups to step up as meth and other synthetics threaten young people. Sports & Identity: Fijian Drua have appointed New Zealand coach Brad Mooar as Men’s head coach for 2027, with a focus on keeping a “special” Fijian style while building a high-performance culture. Youth & Learning: Fiji FA is hosting an OFC A Licence coaching course in Ba with six local coaches, aiming to strengthen technical and leadership skills across Oceania. Elder Care: In Lautoka, calls are growing for earlier planning for old age, as experts warn many people invest in assets but forget health, independence and dignity. Energy for Outer Islands: Youth climate advocates highlight solar training as a way to cut reliance on costly diesel and boost resilience across Pacific communities. Gender & Violence Prevention: Northern carnival contestants and organisers push a shared-responsibility message to tackle gender-based violence, linking prevention to education and tackling poverty. Regional Development: AIIB President Zou Jiayi says the bank is ready to keep backing Fiji’s infrastructure and connectivity, rooted in local culture and needs. Elder Rights Alert: A Lautoka roundtable is set to address a sharp rise in financial exploitation of older people, with legal, religious and elder-care groups invited to find practical protections. Scam Awareness: The Consumer Council is rolling out National Scams Awareness Week across Fiji, with community sessions planned for Lautoka and Labasa. Luxury Stays: Six Senses Fiji is expanding with two new private residences, targeting demand for private escapes and multigenerational travel. Culture & Food: A Fijian restaurant in Okinawa, run by a Nadi-born husband and Japanese wife, is bringing island food and culture to Kouri Island.

Rugby & Identity: Brad Mooar has been appointed Fijian Drua Men’s head coach on a two-year deal, replacing Glen Jackson, with the Kiwi promising a “special brand” of rugby that keeps Fiji’s flair while building discipline and consistency. Elder Rights: A Lautoka roundtable is set to tackle a sharp rise in elder financial exploitation, with calls for stronger protections and action on Fiji’s draft National Ageing Policy. Gender-Based Violence: FMF Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival contestant Alice Cerenasiga urged shared responsibility to prevent gender-based violence, linking risk to poverty and the rising cost of living. Youth & Culture: Fiji’s National Youth Band has created the Pacific Youth Anthem, handed over to the Pacific Community as the official voice for Pacific youth across 14 countries. Faith in Schools: The Fiji Council of Churches says Christian teaching in schools must be done responsibly, with proper approval and respect for all students’ rights and beliefs. Tourism & Lifestyle: Six Senses Fiji is adding two luxury residences for private, multigenerational stays, while a Fiji food journey by chef Arrnott Olssen opens bookings for a November experience beyond resort life.

Sports & Identity: Brad Mooar has been confirmed as Fijian Drua Men’s head coach on a two-year deal, with the Kiwi promising the team will keep its “special brand” while building a distinctly Fijian rugby identity. Elder Care & Rights: A sharp rise in elder financial exploitation has sparked urgent calls for stronger protections, with a Lautoka roundtable set to push practical solutions for ageing Fijians. Gender-Based Violence: FMF Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival contestant Alice Cerenasiga says GBV prevention needs everyone’s shared responsibility, linking risk to poverty and the rising cost of living. Climate Justice (Pacific focus): Save the Children says a year after the ICJ climate ruling, Pacific children are still waiting for real change as education and wellbeing keep getting disrupted. Regional Leadership: Prime Minister Rabuka defends the MSG appointment of Dr Anna Naupa as gender-positive and merit-based amid criticism from Vanuatu. Luxury Lifestyle: Six Senses Fiji is adding two private luxury residences, targeting demand for secluded, multigenerational stays. Youth & Culture: Fiji’s National Youth Band has handed over the Pacific Youth Anthem to the Pacific Community, aiming to unite youth across 14 countries. Education Watch: The Education Ministry is investigating an unauthorised religious visit to Natabua High School and says schools must stay safe with proper approvals.

Scam Safety Push: Fiji’s Consumer Council has launched National Scams Awareness Week 2026, “Building a National Defense Against Digital Fraud,” with community rollouts planned for Lautoka and Labasa to help people spot scams, verify requests, and report fast. Pacific Youth Anthem: Fiji’s National Youth Band has handed over the Pacific Youth Anthem to the Pacific Community, set to become the official song for the Pacific Youth Development Framework across 14 countries. Faith & Community Milestone: Over 1,500 devotees marked the 125th anniversary of Baba Ragho Vishnu Kuti in Nausori, celebrating Sanatan Hindu heritage and the legacy of Baba Ragho Dass Ji. Education Under Scrutiny: The Education Ministry is investigating an unauthorised church group visit to Natabua High School and will take action against the officer who facilitated it, after a video circulated online. Teacher Shortage Plan: The Ministry is considering deploying final-year students in high-demand subjects as vacancies hit 1,000, with the Teachers Association warning of brain drain and stagnant wages. Health Support: IHG Fiji Hotels & Resorts (FNPF-owned) donated $11,000 to Diabetes Fiji, funded through hotel coffee sales, to back screenings and diabetes education. Youth Protection on Vatulele: Taunovo Village has drafted stricter rules to expel anyone found using or selling illicit drugs, alongside stepped-up awareness efforts. Sports & Culture: Fiji Taekwondo’s President’s Cup and National Championship begin in Suva with 163 athletes, while Miss Bula 2026 contestants are using the spotlight to champion education and youth empowerment.

Education & Youth: Fiji’s Education Ministry is investigating a visiting US/Philippines church group that interacted with a student at Natabua High School without approval, and has ordered action against the education officer involved. Teacher Shortage: The Ministry is also considering deploying final-year students in high-demand subjects, as vacancies reportedly reach 1,000 amid brain drain and stagnant wages. Community Safety: Taunovo Village on Vatulele has introduced strict village rules to expel anyone found using or selling illicit drugs, alongside stepped-up awareness efforts. Health & Care: IHG Fiji Hotels & Resorts (FNPF-owned) donated FJ$11,000 to Diabetes Fiji to fund screenings and education, while the Bara Battle raised a record $250,000 for children with disabilities at the Frank Hilton Home. Culture & Faith: A 125th anniversary of Baba Ragho Vishnu Kuti drew 1,500 devotees in Nausori, and the Fiji Muslim League marked 100 years with a renewed focus on youth and education. Sports & Discipline: Fiji Taekwondo’s President’s Cup and National Championship kicked off in Suva with 163 athletes, and Lelean Memorial School’s U19 win highlighted the power of team culture.

Education & Youth: Fiji’s Education Ministry is looking into a video-linked incident at Natabua High School after a US/Philippines church group visited without approval, and it has ordered disciplinary action against the officer who facilitated the trip. Teacher Shortage: The Ministry is also considering deploying final-year students in high-demand subjects, as the Teachers Association warns vacancies have reached 1,000. Community Safety: Police say a post-mortem in Sigatoka ruled out foul play in a police officer’s death, classifying it as natural. Youth Giving Back: In Isabel, a software engineering student helped build a new Kaloka Youth Association website as a “give back” project. Health & Lifestyle: IHG Fiji Hotels & Resorts (FNPF-owned) donated FJ$11,000 to Diabetes Fiji after coffee sales, supporting screenings and education. Culture & Sport: Lelean Memorial School won the Eastern Zone U19 rugby title over Ratu Kadavulevu School, while 163 taekwondo athletes compete in the President’s Cup in Suva. Environment: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Fiji planted about 200 mangrove seedlings with WWF ahead of World Mangrove Day. Global Watch (for locals): Vanuatu’s climate push at the ICJ gained major support, and the ICC removed Karim Khan, raising questions about the future of the Palestine investigation.

Youth & Drugs: Taunovo Village on Vatulele Island is drafting tougher village rules to protect young people from substance abuse, including expelling anyone found using or possessing illicit drugs. Education Staffing: The Education Ministry is considering deploying final-year students in high-demand subjects to tackle a teacher shortage, as the Teachers Association warns vacancies have reached 1,000. School Access Rules: The Ministry is investigating a visiting church group’s unapproved school visit at Natabua High School, with disciplinary action possible for an education officer; the Fiji Council of Churches also urged Christian ministry in schools to respect religious freedom and follow approved processes. Public Health Support: IHG Fiji Hotels & Resorts (FNPF-owned) donated FJ$11,000 to Diabetes Fiji after coffee sales, backing screenings and diabetes education. Community & Culture: Fiji Muslim League marks 100 years with a renewed focus on education, youth development and community service. Sport & Youth Pathways: Fiji Taekwondo’s President’s Cup and National Championship is underway in Suva with 163 athletes, while Lelean Memorial School’s U19 win highlights school rugby culture and teamwork. Environment & Resilience: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Fiji planted about 200 mangrove seedlings with WWF support, backing coastal protection and climate resilience.

Education & Faith in Schools: Fiji’s Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has ordered action against an education officer after a US church group visited Natabua High School without Ministry approval, following a viral video that allegedly singled out a Muslim student; the Fiji Council of Churches also urged Christian ministry in schools to respect students’ religious freedom and follow Ministry policies. Health & Community Support: FNPF-owned IHG Fiji Hotels & Resorts donated FJ$11,000 to Diabetes Fiji after coffee sales, backing screenings and diabetes education, while CWM Hospital received an $840,700 upgrade from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Fiji’s first dedicated adolescent ward and a new minor operating theatre. Culture & Youth: The Fiji Muslim League marked 100 years with a renewed focus on youth, education and community service, and Miss Bula 2026 contestants are using the platform to push education and aviation/tourism opportunities. Environment & Resilience: Fiji has begun work on its 2026 State of the Environment Report, and mangrove restoration efforts continue as resorts and WWF-backed programmes plant seedlings to protect coastlines. Sport & Lifestyle: Commonwealth Games Glasgow is underway with Fiji bowlers and other Pacific teams seeing mixed results, while women’s rugby celebrates a Super W Grand Final in Fiji as the Drua chase the title.

ICJ Climate Anniversary: Pacific leaders and student campaigners marked one year since the ICJ’s unanimous climate advisory ruling, urging governments to turn legal clarity into real action ahead of pre-COP talks and COP31. School Access & Faith in Classrooms: Fiji’s Education Minister ordered action after an education officer facilitated an overseas church group visit to Natabua High School without approval, following a viral video; the Fiji Human Rights Commission and the Fiji Council of Churches also called for safeguarding and respect for religious freedom in schools. Legal Tensions in Justice System: Fiji’s former chief prosecutor Christopher Pryde says he faced a racist, government-led conspiracy after FICAC dropped charges he says were politically driven. Commonwealth Games, Pacific Pride: Glasgow 2026 opened with Pacific delegations in the stadium; Fiji’s Rajnesh Prasad won in bowling while other Pacific bowlers had mixed results. Women’s Sport Boost: Fiji Drua’s coach says hosting the first-ever Super W Grand Final in Fiji is a landmark for women’s rugby, with the final set for Ba. Health & Community Support: IHG Fiji Hotels donated $11,000 to Diabetes Fiji, and CWM Hospital received $840,700 for a new minor operating theatre and Fiji’s first adolescent ward. Environment & Coastal Care: DoubleTree Resort planted about 200 mangrove seedlings with WWF support, while Fiji began work on its 2026 State of the Environment Report. Consumer Protection: Consumer Council launched National Scams Awareness Week 2026, pushing “informed trust” and reporting scams via hotline 155. Culture & Youth: Miss Bula contestants used the platform to champion education and youth empowerment, including aviation and tourism.

Child Safeguarding in Schools: Fiji’s Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is urging urgent investigation after reports and social media video of a student allegedly singled out because of his religion during a school session with an external preacher. Environment Watch: Fiji has started work on its 2026 State of the Environment Report, a “report card” covering forests, rivers, reefs, biodiversity, air quality, waste, climate impacts and oceans. Health Upgrade at CWM Hospital: A $840,700 donation has delivered a new minor operating theatre and Fiji’s first dedicated adolescent ward, aiming to cut surgical delays—especially for diabetic foot patients. NCD Prevention Goes Local: A new Wellness Centre opened in Marata Village, bringing community health workers, screenings and referrals closer to residents to tackle Fiji’s high NCD burden. Women’s Leadership in Sport: The Fiji Muslim League launched its 100th anniversary celebrations, while on the sports front the first-ever Super W Grand Final in Fiji is set to spotlight women’s rugby. Community Safety & Scams: The Consumer Council rolled out National Scams Awareness Week nationwide, pushing “informed trust” and scam reporting. Culture & Faith: The Namosi Music Festival debuts this Saturday, celebrating local performers, meke, food and culture in the mountains.