The Assistant Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Sakiusa Tubuna, has emphasized that kava consumption is a significant contributor to fatal road accidents. While there is limited data linking high kava intake to road safety incidents, some accidents have resulted in fatalities tied to excessive kava drinking.
During discussions on the 2019-2022 annual reports with a parliamentary standing committee, Tubuna raised concerns about the lack of focus on the effects of kava in the context of road safety, stressing that excessive kava consumption plays a critical role in serious road incidents.
He pointed out, “There is considerable focus on alcohol and its effects on road accidents, but there seems to be insufficient information about how excessive kava consumption can lead to accidents.” Tubuna noted that some victims of road accidents had been affected by heavy kava drinking. He called for more awareness, particularly aimed at the iTaukei community.
Maritino Nemani, the executive chair of the Accident Compensation Commission Fiji (ACCF) and the permanent secretary for Employment, echoed Tubuna’s concerns. He advocated for updated regulations that consider excessive kava drinking as a factor in road accidents. Nemani stated, “In many places abroad, there are strict penalties for excessive kava consumption while driving, and we should start incorporating this into our regulations. It’s not only about alcohol; kava must also be included.”