President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has called on Naitasiri’s paramount chief, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, to take strong measures to safeguard his community against the escalating illicit drug problem. He voiced his concerns about the rising drug usage nationwide during the Naitasiri Provincial Council meeting held at Tamavua Village in Suva yesterday.
“It is essential for us to come together for the province’s advancement. The vanua must collaborate with the youth and the community to tackle the wide-ranging social issues impacting our society,” Ratu Wiliame emphasized.
The President expressed his alarm over the harmful impact of drugs on young people, stating his worries about current and future generations. He stressed the importance of uniting efforts from the vanua and the church to protect the youth and advocated for reinforcing cultural values and respect within families and the broader community.
Ratu Wiliame also urged that young individuals who have dropped out of school should be prompted to enroll in technical schools, thereby enabling them to overcome social challenges and contribute positively to the community.
“We should not blame others; it is our responsibility to confront this issue,” he remarked. He further pointed out the need for a comprehensive village profile initiative that could assist the government in providing targeted support to Naitasiri residents.
Additionally, he urged the community to combat Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) by adopting healthier dietary habits. Ratu Wiliame highlighted that 80 percent of deaths are linked to NCDs, prompting a reflection on how the province can tackle this pressing health concern.
“I encourage everyone to consider how our ancestors lived and what they ate. We must focus on nourishing ourselves with the food we grow,” he stated.