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The front page of The Sunday Times for November 17 features two significant stories. Firstly, Mahendra Chaudhry, leader of the Fiji Labour Party and former Prime Minister, is preparing for the upcoming 2026 general elections. While speaking at the FLP Annual Delegates Conference in Nadi, Mr. Chaudhry emphasized the urgent need for strong, transparent, and visionary leadership that the people of Fiji so desperately seek.
The second headline addresses the Fiji National University Naiyaca Campus in Labasa, which is set to be completed by 2026. Vice Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba stated that construction on the campus will restart next year. She mentioned that FNU is actively seeking funding partners to help finalize the project, which has already seen over $20 million in government funding.
In a related editorial, Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa called on businesses to invest in drug rehabilitation centers in Fiji during the opening of the Sigatoka Coral Coast Festival. He highlighted the urgency of addressing drug addiction, particularly among youth, and stressed the need for a collaborative approach to combat this issue.
Mr. Nalumisa pointed out that the Coalition Government has introduced incentives for businesses to assist in establishing rehabilitation centers, including a 13-year tax holiday for new facilities and duty-free status for essential imported goods. Additionally, businesses making donations to rehabilitation initiatives will benefit from full tax deductions.
The Minister outlined the government’s commitment to a comprehensive strategy for tackling drug addiction, showcased by the allocation of $2 million for establishing a Narcotics Bureau in the Ministry of Home Affairs in the 2024/2025 National Budget. The newly launched Counter Narcotics Strategy 2023-2028 focuses on various areas, such as demand reduction, supply reduction, harm reduction, legal reform, and partnerships with international organizations.
Notably, Mr. Nalumisa highlighted that 50% of Fiji’s population is under 34 years old, which underscores the importance of tailored programs and support systems to offer positive opportunities for youth. He pointed out that youth unemployment is predicted to be higher than the national average of 4.3%, emphasizing the critical need to invest in education, job creation, and rehabilitation programs.
This initiative by Minister Nalumisa, along with the government’s recognition of the need for drug rehabilitation centers, signals a positive step forward in addressing this pressing societal issue. As the attention shifts from discussion to action, there is hope for meaningful change that will ultimately benefit the community and foster a healthier environment for Fiji’s youth.
In summary, Fiji is poised for significant developments, both politically and in public health initiatives, with the potential for positive outcomes as the collaboration between government and businesses strengthens to tackle drug addiction and support community wellness.
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