President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has called on the paramount chief of Naitasiri, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, to take proactive measures to safeguard his community against the escalating illicit drug crisis. He voiced his apprehension about the rising levels of drug use nationwide.
Ratu Wiliame addressed the Naitasiri Provincial Council meeting at Tamavua Village in Suva, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to improve the province. He stated, “It is vital that we work together for the advancement of the province. The vanua must collaborate with youth and the community to tackle the pervasive social issues affecting us.”
He expressed his distress over the harmful effects of drugs on young people, highlighting the importance of unity to ensure the vanua and the church join forces to protect future generations. Ratu Wiliame stressed the significance of reinforcing cultural values and respect for elders within families and the wider community.
Furthermore, he encouraged Naitasiri’s youth who have left school to pursue technical education, which will aid their personal development and assist in addressing social challenges. “We should not lay blame on others. It is our responsibility to confront this issue,” he asserted.
Ratu Wiliame also pointed out the necessity for a thorough village profiling initiative to facilitate targeted assistance from the government to the people of Naitasiri. Additionally, he urged residents to join the fight against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) by adopting a healthier diet.
“The Ministry of Health has reported that 80 percent of deaths are caused by NCDs. We need to contemplate what we can do as a province to remedy this situation,” he remarked, encouraging a return to the eating habits of their ancestors and promoting the consumption of locally grown food.