Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, has expressed deep concern regarding the rising number of homeless children living in urban areas. She emphasized that while the government plays a vital role in addressing this issue, the root causes often lie within family dynamics and home environments.
Tabuya pointed out that various pressures including family strife, substance abuse, and parental negligence contribute significantly to the alarming presence of these children on the streets. In response to this crisis, the government has established a Taskforce aimed at investigating the underlying reasons for the increasing number of homeless youth.
“We have set up a Taskforce to explore the causes behind the rise of children living on streets, which can sometimes stem from issues at home, substance use, abuse, and lack of parental care,” she explained. Although efforts have been made to rescue many of these children and place them in rehabilitation centers, Tabuya noted a shortage of trained professionals equipped to properly care for them.
Addressing questions from Opposition Member Praveen Bala about the placement of these children, Tabuya reiterated that a Regulatory Order exists to ensure that children in need are separated from those who pose a risk to them.
The situation of street children has become a pressing issue in Fiji, highlighting wider challenges related to homelessness and social inequality. This urgent call for action presents an opportunity for the community and government to collaborate more effectively in combating these societal issues.
The establishment of the Taskforce is a hopeful step toward creating more comprehensive support systems for vulnerable children, aiming to not only address their immediate needs but also tackle the root causes of homelessness. By working together and employing trained professionals, Fiji can strive to improve the lives of these children and foster a brighter future for them.
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