The future of Fiji is in jeopardy if significant actions are not taken to combat the drug problem, warns Bua paramount chief Ratu Makutu Nagagavoka. He pointed out that while efforts are ongoing to manage marijuana use, the emergence of new drugs presents an escalating challenge.
Ratu Makutu expressed that although marijuana remains the primary concern, the introduction of methamphetamine, also known as “meth” or “ice,” has complicated the scenario. He emphasized that the roots of this issue are deeply embedded in the community, necessitating solutions that originate at the household level.
He advocates for a proactive stance on drug prevention and intervention, highlighting that addressing the drug crisis requires strengthening family and community structures. “If we want to deal with this problem effectively, we need to emphasize prevention, education, and support within our families and neighborhoods,” he asserted.
The chief warned that if no immediate action is taken to tackle this issue, the condition of Fiji will deteriorate.