Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua has raised alarming concerns about the impact of illicit drugs on young children in Fiji, highlighting a disturbing trend where some parents are involving their children in drug trafficking. During a recent speech to the Labasa Rotary Club, he expressed his shock that this issue, once thought to be confined to urban areas, is now affecting rural communities as well.
Minister Tikoduadua emphasized the importance of community involvement in the fight against drugs, stating that while the government holds the ultimate responsibility for the safety and welfare of its citizens, grassroots efforts are essential. He called for collective action from communities to address the drug epidemic, which he described as leading Fiji towards serious societal decline.
“To combat this scourge, we need to take decisive action and allocate resources,” he urged. The minister outlined a multi-faceted approach that includes preventing drug flow, rehabilitating those affected, holding drug dealers accountable, and prosecuting those who exploit others through drug trafficking.
This issue is a pressing concern for society and reflects a critical need for collaboration between the government and community members. By uniting efforts and sharing responsibilities, there is hope that we can create safer environments for the youngest and most vulnerable citizens.
The commitment to tackle this problem is commendable, and with concerted efforts, Fiji has the potential to make significant strides in creating awareness, preventing drug abuse, and fostering a healthier future for its children.
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