Opposition Member of Parliament Semi Koroilavesau is calling on the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs to prioritize funding in the upcoming financial year to reinforce the social structures of the iTaukei community to proactively tackle rising social issues. Koroilavesau emphasized that while the Ministry of Finance is focusing on supporting indigenous communities in areas such as education and employment, there is an immediate need to address critical social problems impacting iTaukei youth, including drug abuse, HIV, and domestic violence.
“We need to find a way to better administer to the young iTaukei, especially in light of our existing social structures to tackle these pressing issues,” Koroilavesau stated, highlighting increasing concerns regarding law and order in rural settings.
Additionally, he expressed support for providing financial allowances to local leaders, including Turaga ni Koro and Matanitikina. He believes that empowering these leaders is crucial for instilling discipline and reinforcing respect for the law within their communities.
These sentiments align with the recent discussions among community leaders emphasizing the need for collective action. Ministers have highlighted that the collaboration within iTaukei leadership is vital to address social challenges, including rising crime rates and public health concerns like drug dependence and domestic violence. The overarching call for unity aims to galvanize community efforts in establishing a safer environment for the younger generation.
In a broader context, previous conversations have indicated a strong commitment to enhancing iTaukei initiatives—such as a recent increase of $41 million in funding aimed at education and economic development. This funding is designed to uplift the community, reinforce cultural integrity, and promote youth empowerment. The hope is that by addressing these concerns collaboratively, the iTaukei community will be able to build resilience and foster a more supportive environment for future generations.
The proactive approach taken by leaders like Koroilavesau shows promise for a united effort to mitigate social difficulties, ultimately striving towards a healthier and more prosperous future for the iTaukei people.
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