The Tailevu Provincial Council is working on a long-term strategic plan that aims to tackle the issue of excessive kava consumption in the province. Council chairman Rusiate Tudravu acknowledged that the continued prevalence of grog drinking is a significant challenge for the community.
Tudravu stated, “Excessive drinking of yaqona is a pressing issue for the provincial council.” He emphasized that the matter would be addressed in their strategic planning sessions. He pointed out that Tailevu has ample land, yet the challenge lies with the youth, many of whom are involved in the excessive consumption of kava.
While acknowledging that it may not be possible to completely eliminate excessive drinking, he urged the community to adopt healthier lifestyles and reduce their grog intake. Tudravu also noted the necessity for villages and local areas to develop resources and opportunities instead of relying solely on government support. He stressed that time should not be predominantly spent on drinking kava.
His remarks come in response to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s appeal to traditional leaders in Tailevu to monitor their kava consumption and encourage their communities to do the same. Rabuka highlighted that excessive kava drinking is linked to Fiji’s persistent issues with noncommunicable diseases.