NZ Backs Fiji with $7.2M for Climate Resilience and HIV Response

Pacific Peoples Minister Dr Shane Reti has reaffirmed New Zealand’s strong commitment to Pacific-led development by announcing over NZ$7.2 million in new support for climate-resilient agriculture and public health in Fiji, during the Pacific Islands Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) held this week in Suva, Fiji.

The high-level forum brought together regional economic leaders to advance collaboration on critical issues such as climate change, sustainable development, labour mobility, and financial inclusion. Dr Reti, representing Aotearoa New Zealand, reiterated the country’s ongoing dedication to Pacific-led solutions and regional resilience through the Duavata Partnership framework.

“This week’s Forum focused on strengthening regional ties and tackling key challenges like economic development, banking access, and labour mobility,” said Dr Reti. “New Zealand is backing Pacific leadership and resilience on the issues that matter most.”

NZ$3.2 Million for Climate-Smart Agriculture in Fiji

One of the cornerstone announcements was New Zealand’s NZ$3.2 million contribution to Fiji’s participation in the Pacific Climate-Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Land Management Partnership.

This regional initiative is designed to equip Pacific nations with adaptive tools and technologies to ensure food security and agricultural sustainability in the face of escalating climate threats. For Fiji, this support will:

• Help develop and scale climate-resilient crops

• Restore and maintain soil health through regenerative practices

• Build capacity for sustainable farming and land management

• Strengthen rural livelihoods and reduce climate vulnerability in the agriculture sector

“This investment will help develop climate-resilient crops, restore soil health, and support sustainable farming practices in Fiji,” said Dr Reti. “It reflects our shared vision for a food-secure and climate-resilient Pacific.”

Fiji, like many Pacific Island nations, faces growing pressure from rising sea levels, soil degradation, and extreme weather events, all of which threaten agricultural output and rural food systems. The partnership aims to integrate traditional knowledge with scientific innovation, making Pacific agriculture more resilient to future shocks.

NZ$4 Million to Support Fiji’s HIV Response

In response to Fiji’s ongoing national HIV outbreak, Dr Reti also announced NZ$4 million in new funding to support public health interventions aimed at reducing transmission, improving treatment services, and combating stigma.

Fiji has seen a troubling rise in HIV cases, with health officials citing both limited access to testing and treatment, and persistent social stigma as key barriers to containment. The funding from New Zealand will be channeled into:

• Expanding testing and outreach services, particularly in underserved communities

• Improving access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and healthcare support

• Training frontline health workers and community health educators

• Supporting public awareness campaigns to fight discrimination and misinformation

“Fiji is facing a serious public health crisis, and New Zealand is proud to stand alongside them,” Dr Reti said. “This funding will support efforts to reduce transmission, improve treatment, and fight stigma.”

This initiative builds on New Zealand’s broader support for health system strengthening across the Pacific, particularly in light of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. It aligns with regional goals of universal healthcare access and human rights-based public health responses.

Aligned with the Duavata Partnership Vision

Both the climate-smart agriculture and HIV support packages are being delivered through New Zealand’s International Development Cooperation Programme, under the umbrella of the Duavata Partnership—a collaborative framework guiding New Zealand’s development engagement with Pacific nations.

The Duavata Partnership emphasizes mutual respect, local leadership, and culturally grounded development. It prioritizes Pacific voices in setting priorities and co-designing programmes that are sustainable, inclusive, and impactful.

“These initiatives are a clear demonstration of New Zealand’s commitment to working in true partnership with Pacific nations,” Dr Reti said. “Whether it's food security, climate resilience, or public health, we’re backing Pacific solutions to Pacific challenges.”

Strengthening Regional Economic and Human Development

Dr Reti’s presence at FEMM 2025 also signals the growing importance of economic diplomacy and regional coordination in the Pacific. With Pacific nations continuing to recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19, and facing growing climate pressures, joint initiatives like those announced in Suva are seen as vital for securing long-term regional stability, prosperity, and health outcomes.

Through this latest investment, New Zealand strengthens its position as a reliable development partner, focused on amplifying Pacific priorities, building climate and health resilience, and promoting shared prosperity across the region.