The Assistant Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Sakiusa Tubuna, recently highlighted that kava consumption could play a significant role in fatal road accidents, a statement likely to draw considerable attention.
While kava has not often been associated with road fatalities—commonly attributed to alcohol—Tubuna argues that this perspective is worth reconsidering. He suggests that kava can dull the senses, impacting rational thought and reaction times, similar to other intoxicating substances.
During discussions regarding the 2019-2022 annual reports to the parliamentary standing committee, he pointed out that while there is limited information on the direct correlation between excessive kava intake and road accidents, there have been instances where individuals died after heavy kava consumption. He signaled a need for more data and awareness regarding how excessive kava drinking affects road safety, particularly noting its significance in incidents involving long-distance drivers.
Maritino Nemani, the executive chair of the Accident Compensation Commission Fiji, echoed Tubuna’s concerns, advocating for updated regulations to include kava drinking as a contributing factor in road incidents. He referenced his experiences abroad, where excessive kava consumption can lead to consequences similar to those for drunken driving.
The conversation sparked by Mr. Tubuna and supported by Mr. Nemani suggests that kava should be considered in discussions about road safety, which could lead to a shift in how we approach road safety strategies. While kava is typically viewed as less harmful than alcohol, its effects on cognitive and motor functions merit closer examination. This challenging of established views on kava consumption could open up important dialogues within the community.