Fiji Unites Churches, Chiefs and Government in Drug-Free Villages Campaign

The Fiji Police Force’s narcotics division awareness officer, Inspector Usaia Donu, has called for collaboration among the church, government, and local communities to effectively tackle Fiji’s escalating drug crisis. Speaking at the All-Nations Christian Fellowship Generation Youth Conference in Lautoka, Insp Donu highlighted a concerning trend: each of these institutions is currently operating independently, leading to fragmented approaches in addressing drug awareness.

For over a decade, Insp Donu has participated in public awareness campaigns alongside government ministers, observing that while these institutions are committed to combating drug issues, they often pursue separate agendas. “The point where they have to meet, no one is looking at that,” he stated, advocating for a unified front to combat the prevalent drug problem.

Insp Donu announced plans to launch a “Drug Free Village” campaign in partnership with the local vanua. He shared that Tui Vitogo had reached out to initiate this campaign, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including church leaders, community chiefs, and government representatives. “We will be working together to bring our message to our villages,” he said, highlighting the need for cohesive efforts to tackle the crisis.

During his address to the youth, Insp Donu provided insights into the dangers associated with drug use, specifically marijuana and methamphetamine. He explained the differences between the substances, noting that while marijuana affects emotional control and happiness, methamphetamine delivers a more intense “rush,” which can lead users to neglect their responsibilities and well-being.

As he encouraged youths to bolster their faith in God as a means to resist the allure of drugs, Insp Donu’s message resonates with a broader community call to face the drug crisis head-on. His initiative to integrate efforts from various sectors reflects a hopeful progression toward addressing addiction and promoting healthier lifestyles in Fiji.