Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs, expressed optimism about gaining support from council members for the creation of a drug rehabilitation center. Although the topic was not formally discussed during last week’s council meeting, Ratu Viliame is confident that the chiefs would be inclined to support initiatives that benefit the nation at large.
He indicated that while rehabilitation was not on the agenda, the traditional leaders would be willing to assist the government in establishing rehabilitation facilities, potentially including the provision of land for such projects. Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, emphasized that cooperation from traditional leadership is vital for enhancing efforts to rehabilitate individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Tikoduadua urged the communities to identify their needs and utilize available natural resources effectively. He underscored that addressing drug issues in Fiji poses significant challenges as illicit substances have permeated the local culture. Tikoduadua highlighted the necessity for the vanua, or tribal communities, to unite and take responsibility for their members in order to aid governmental efforts in combating drug-related problems.
The commitment of the council signifies a hopeful direction towards collaboratively tackling the drug crisis, enhancing social support structures, and bridging the gap between traditional leadership and governmental initiatives.
In summary, the Great Council of Chiefs is poised to support the establishment of a drug rehabilitation center, which, with concerted effort between traditional and governmental leaders, could greatly benefit communities impacted by drug abuse in Fiji. This collective response affords a proactive approach to a pressing social issue, demonstrating the potential for positive change in the community.
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