JP Bayly Trust Partners with Communities to Tackle NCDs

Published: 30th Apr 2026

SUVA, FIJI – In a direct move to combat the rising tide of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), the JP Bayly Trust is working with communities to develop interventions and activities to help prevent and control NCDs.

The Bayly Trust recognises that the potentials to change risk behaviours in NCDs must engage communities and allow them to take ownership and leadership in actions such as: stop smoking, eat healthy, avoid excessive alcohol, do more exercises and physical activities, reduce grog, say no to drugs, and keep away from stress.

The Bayly Trust has three branches, located in Suva, Lautoka and Labasa. They are keen to implement the model of community-based NCD interventions in selected communities in all three branches.

As part of its support to roll out this project, the Trust supports communities in procuring equipment and supplies to help clear grounds for community farming,
promote home gardening and establish programs and activities to encourage sports, exercises and physical activities to benefit all age groups of the communities.

On 27th April, the Trust handed over a new brush cutter and a chainsaw to the Turaga-ni-Koro of Naikorokoro Village to kick start the project. This handover of this basic equipment is a key component of the larger NCD project managed by the JP Bayly Trust, working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and community leaders. A similar approach is being planned for both Lautoka and Labasa Branches.

The initiative targets specific NCD risk factors, in particular obesity, unhealthy eating, smoking and kava.

The donated equipment will be used by the village to clear agricultural village land, home gardens and a dedicated playground and sports field for the youth.

In addition, the NCD project will support the establishment of Wellness Centres as a location for accessing NCD information, a place to hold meetings to discuss NCDs and other public health issues, and to allow the community leaders work with zone nurse and community health worker to foster a culture of wellness among the general population.

The Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr Digby Bossley is very keen to support community actions for NCD Prevention and Control. We are happy to contribute to the national strategy on NCDs and we see our role as working with communities and villages to support NCD screening, community actions for NCD risk factors, and support the referrals of patients for improved treatment at the government facilities.

The Turaga-ni-Koro of Naikorokoro expressed deep gratitude for the donation, noting that the new playground will provide a vital space for the village youths to engage in productive, healthy outdoor activities.