The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has highlighted a serious issue facing Fiji beyond climate change: the troubling rise of drug use, particularly among children. During his address at the Rotary Club Labasa’s Gala Night, Mr. Tikoduadua expressed his alarm at reports of parents involving their children in drug trafficking activities in Labasa, a practice he believed was primarily confined to urban areas like Suva.
He remarked on the prevalence of both marijuana and methamphetamines in Fiji, noting that the disturbing trend of parents using their children to sell drugs signifies a troubling spread of drug-related issues into communities that were previously less affected. Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized the critical role of the community in combating drug use, asserting that while the government holds primary responsibility for the welfare and safety of its citizens, it is ultimately the families and the community that must lead the charge against this crisis.
This highlights a significant need for greater collective action within communities to face the drug epidemic, which is harming the most vulnerable members of society—children. It is a poignant reminder that local accountability and community involvement are vital in addressing and rectifying social issues that extend beyond governmental responsibilities.
In a positive light, this situation could prompt communities to come together, fostering stronger networks of support for families facing hardship and working collaboratively to safeguard their children’s future. By amplifying community education and engagement, there is hope for a collective movement to change the narrative around drug use in Fiji.
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