Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Lynda Tabuya, emphasized that while the government is making efforts to prevent children from migrating to urban areas and ending up homeless, parental involvement and the home environment play a crucial role in this issue.
Tabuya pointed out that family pressures and issues are significant contributors to the increasing number of homeless children. To address this alarming situation, a task force has been established to investigate the multitude of factors leading to children living on the streets, which include familial stress, exposure to drugs, abuse, and parental neglect.
Despite some success in removing children from the streets and placing them in rehabilitation centers, Tabuya noted a shortage of trained professionals available to care for these vulnerable individuals. She stressed that while several centers exist, they need more qualified staff to provide adequate support.
In response to queries regarding the placement of street children, Tabuya explained that a Regulatory Order is in place to ensure that children are appropriately separated based on risk levels and the potential for harm.
Tabuya’s comments highlight the pressing need for more comprehensive actions to address the growing concern of street children in Fiji, a problem that underscores wider issues of homelessness and social inequality in the country.
In light of these challenges, the establishment of the task force and a focus on regulatory measures provide a foundation for potential improvements in the lives of these children. With increased awareness and action, there is hope for creating a safer and more supportive environment for vulnerable youth in Fiji.
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