SUVA, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- Malnutrition remains a serious public health issue in Fiji, with 80 percent of children under two and 50 percent of school-aged children affected.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran highlighted the concern at the National Farmers Awards in Nadi, Fihji's third largest city, calling for urgent action to address undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and overnutrition, reported Fijivillage news website Friday.
Kiran urged families to return to traditional farming and food processing practices, emphasizing the nutritional value of local crops.
She said home gardening should be promoted not only during crises but as a sustainable way to improve national health and reduce food expenses.
Fiji has been struggling with a "triple burden of malnutrition" -- undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and rising obesity rates.
The World Health Organization has previously flagged high rates of stunting and anemia in children, while poor diets and lifestyle changes are also driving non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Heavy reliance on imported foods, especially processed items high in sugar and salt, has contributed to poor nutrition outcomes.
Fiji has implemented several initiatives to improve food security and nutrition, including school nutrition programs, and policies aimed at strengthening local crop production.
The push to revive traditional crops like rourou (taro leaves), and saijan (drumstick tree leaves), is part of broader efforts to promote healthier diets and reduce dependence on imports. ■
