The prevalence of drug-related issues across the nation poses a significant threat to the future of youth and communities, according to Alitia Bainivalu, the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry. During the opening ceremony of the Vodafone Rakiraki Carnival last Saturday, she emphasized that the onus of safeguarding young people from these dangers does not rest solely on government officials or religious figures but must commence from a place of love and care within the home.
Bainivalu highlighted the carnival’s theme this year, “Empowering Youth, Protecting Futures: Drug-Free Starts with Me,” as a crucial and relevant message. As a prominent female leader from the province of Ra, she expressed her concerns regarding the rising drug epidemic affecting the country.
She stated that empowering youth to feel strong and confident is vital, particularly in helping them to understand that leading a drug-free life begins internally. Bainivalu urged for ongoing awareness efforts within families, communities, and villages, which would have a positive influence on the socio-cultural dynamics of the nation.
Furthermore, she pointed out the role of religion in youth empowerment, as it adds meaning and purpose to life, serves as a social control mechanism for behavior, and fosters positive changes within society.
Bainivalu stressed the importance of teaching children to withstand peer pressure and to make well-informed, healthy choices. She also commended the government’s strides toward addressing the escalating drug issue, noting the recent establishment of the Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau and the formulation of the National Counter Narcotics Strategy for 2023-2028, which illustrates the government’s dedication to tackling this challenge directly.
She concluded by asserting that these initiatives signal the collaborative effort required to safeguard the future of the nation.