President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has called on Naitasiri paramount chief, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, to take strong measures to safeguard his community from the escalating issue of illicit drug use. He expressed his worries about the rising drug consumption within the nation.
Ratu Wiliame addressed the Naitasiri Provincial Council meeting held at Tamavua Village in Suva yesterday. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts for the enhancement of the province, urging collaboration among traditional leaders, the youth, and the wider community to tackle prevalent social challenges.
The president shared his concern about the negative toll of drugs on the youth, highlighting the need for united action to protect future generations. He called for a partnership between the vanua (land) and the church to ensure the well-being of children.
Ratu Wiliame also pointed out that it is crucial to instill cultural values and respect for elders within families and communities. He encouraged young school dropouts to explore technical education, which could equip them to address social issues and aid community development.
He stated that responsibility lies with the community, urging them to confront this challenge without blaming others. Additionally, he stressed the importance of creating a thorough village profile initiative to help the government offer targeted assistance to Naitasiri’s residents.
Moreover, he urged the community to take proactive steps in combating Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) by embracing healthier dietary practices. Citing that 80 percent of deaths are attributed to NCDs, he called on the province to consider how they might tackle this critical issue. He encouraged everyone to reflect on traditional lifestyles and dietary choices, promoting the consumption of locally grown food.