The excessive consumption of kava in Kadavu has become a significant issue, posing a threat to family stability. Bulou Luisa Duikete, the leader of the Kadavu Women’s Association, has highlighted the detrimental effects of kava consumption, emphasizing how it is causing family breakdowns.
“The reality is most men back in the village tend to neglect their families for a bowl of kava,” Duikete said. “This has led to financial strain within families, especially if funds are redirected from essential needs and cost of living.”
Duikete noted that many women on the island have been forced to take on dual roles, managing their households and providing for their families.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka responded by calling on village headmen to be more proactive in their responsibilities. “It’s not our job alone as government to step in and assist every villager; we need your support,” Rabuka said. “Communal effort is needed; we need to keep our future and identity intact.”
Rabuka emphasized that village headmen are key to ensuring the wellbeing and development of their communities. “This includes overseeing local governance, resolving disputes, and coordinating with authorities for essential services,” he added.
He reminded those present that the role of a village headman carries the responsibility to improve the lives of those under their care, not just the prestige of a title.