Fiji’s Head Coach Wise Kativerata has voiced significant concern regarding the rising drug abuse crisis in the nation, following the disturbing emergence of videos that show young individuals, some believed to be minors, openly using injectable drugs in Suva. At a recent Narcotics Anonymous event, he urged community leaders and the government to take immediate action rather than engage in empty discussions.
Kativerata emphasized that action must extend beyond mere words; he called for a national shift focusing on creating opportunities for young people, promoting personal discipline, and cultivating purpose, starting from family units. “The drug problem keeps rising and rising. We need people who take action, not people with agendas,” he stated, highlighting the necessity for leaders, including faith representatives, to encourage young Fijians to take responsibility for their lives.
The current situation echoes earlier warnings from community leaders, including Assistant Commissioner of Police Sakeo Ganivatu, who has raised alarms about the escalation of drug use transitioning from recreational activity to a serious societal threat. Reports of alarming increases in drug-related incidents, particularly affecting schools and younger demographics, reflect a pressing public health emergency. In some areas, drug abuse correlates with heightened levels of HIV cases among the youth, as over 50 young individuals were recently identified as HIV-positive, connected to risky drug practices.
Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu has also urged families and community members to abandon a “bystander” mentality regarding drug issues, reiterating that collective community effort is vital to combat the drug epidemic. This aligns with calls for strengthened family structures and engagement to address the root causes of youth drug abuse.
While the current scenario presents significant challenges, the overarching message from leaders like Kativerata and Vasu underscores the potential for positive change. By championing community involvement and fostering supportive environments at home, there is hope that Fiji can pave the way towards a healthier, drug-free future for its youth.
In this time of crisis, proactive measures and collaboration among all sectors—families, community leaders, and the government—are essential to ensure the well-being of future generations in Fiji.
Leave a comment