Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa has urged businesses in Fiji to invest in the creation of drug rehabilitation centres. Speaking during the opening of the Sigatoka Coral Coast Festival on Saturday, Mr. Nalumisa highlighted the significant impact of drug addiction on youth, emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort to address this pressing issue.
The Coalition Government is offering incentives for businesses willing to invest in rehabilitation initiatives, including a 13-year tax holiday for the establishment of drug rehabilitation centres and duty-free importation of essential capital goods. Furthermore, businesses that donate to drug rehabilitation centres will be eligible for a full tax deduction.
Mr. Nalumisa pointed out that despite Fiji’s beautiful landscapes, the community faces the serious challenge of drug addiction, which heavily affects young people. He expressed the government’s commitment to a holistic approach that not only encourages non-governmental organizations to participate but also explores government-led initiatives for rehabilitation centre setups.
In addition to these efforts, he discussed plans for a newly established Narcotics Bureau within the Ministry of Home Affairs, which will receive $2 million from the 2024/2025 National Budget. The government has also implemented a Counter Narcotics Strategy for 2023-2028 that focuses on various strategic areas such as demand reduction, supply reduction, and harm reduction.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Mr. Nalumisa noted that around 50% of Fiji’s population is under 34 years old, underscoring the necessity for targeted programs that provide young people with positive opportunities. He pointed out that youth unemployment, projected to be above the national average of 4.3%, exacerbates the vulnerability of young individuals, making investments in education, employment, and rehabilitation programs crucial.
This initiative reflects a community-oriented approach to tackling addiction, showing promise in potentially transforming the lives of many young people in Fiji. With these measures, there is hope for a healthier future, as targeted support systems could lead to improved opportunities and a reduction in drug-related issues.
Summary:
Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa calls for businesses to invest in drug rehabilitation centres, highlighting government incentives like tax holidays and donations deductions. He emphasizes a holistic approach to combat youth drug addiction and proposes a Counter Narcotics Strategy, as well as the establishment of a Narcotics Bureau. Concerns over youth unemployment stress the importance of investment in education and rehabilitation programs for a positive community impact.
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