Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa recently made an important statement encouraging businesses in Fiji to invest in drug rehabilitation centres. During his address at the Sigatoka Coral Coast Festival, he highlighted the pressing issue of drug addiction, particularly among the youth, and emphasized the necessity for a collaborative effort to combat this crisis.
Nalumisa proposed that instead of just discussing the problem, concrete actions must be initiated to bring about real change. He announced that the Coalition Government has introduced incentives aimed at businesses willing to establish these rehabilitation facilities. Notably, these incentives include a generous 13-year tax holiday for those setting up drug rehabilitation centres and the provision of duty-free imports for the essential capital goods required for their establishment. Moreover, businesses that contribute to drug rehabilitation centres will also benefit from a full tax deduction on their donations.
The minister further explained that, while he encourages the involvement of non-governmental organizations, the government is actively exploring options for setting up its own rehabilitation centres. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a sustainable and comprehensive approach to addressing drug addiction within communities.
Nalumisa mentioned the government’s allocation of $2 million in the 2024/2025 National Budget for establishing a Narcotics Bureau within the Ministry of Home Affairs, which will play a crucial role in combating drug-related issues. The Counter Narcotics Strategy for 2023-2028 has been launched, focusing on multiple strategic areas such as demand and supply reduction, harm reduction, legal reform, and international partnerships.
Addressing the issue of youth involvement in drug abuse and related crimes, he pointed out that a significant portion of the population—50%—is under 34 years of age. This underscores the urgent need for targeted programs that offer young people positive opportunities. High youth unemployment rates, expected to exceed the national average of 4.3%, further exacerbate the vulnerability of young individuals, highlighting the crucial need for investment in education and rehabilitation resources.
Nalumisa’s call to action reflects a growing recognition of the necessity for drug rehabilitation centres in Fiji, as the absence of such institutions is seen as a systemic failure. The hope is that with the momentum from governmental initiatives and community support, meaningful progress can be made to establish well-resourced centres staffed by qualified health professionals.
In summary, Minister Nalumisa’s appeal for business investment in drug rehabilitation is a significant step towards addressing drug addiction in Fiji, particularly among the youth. The proposed incentives and government strategies aim to create an environment that fosters recovery and provides supportive resources for those affected by addiction. This collaborative approach may pave the way for a healthier future for many young Fijians.
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