Twenty individuals have been identified as habitual beggars in Nadi town, prompting local authorities to take action. The Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, highlighted this issue during a recent meeting with the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, where stakeholders discussed strategies to combat the growing problem of begging.

Minister Kiran acknowledged that while some of these individuals have previously been integrated into family environments or placed in shelters with financial support from the Ministry, many have returned to street life. The persistent nature of this issue indicates the need for a more tailored, individualized approach to support each person effectively. Local business leaders, including Ashfaaq Khan and Marc McElrath, have called for a coordinated response from various agencies to address the challenges posed by street begging. They argue that without timely intervention, community safety and business sustainability may be at risk.

In addition to the immediate concerns surrounding habitual begging, the Ministry is also reviewing legislation related to child welfare and parental neglect. This assessment aims to address the underlying issues contributing to the abandonment of vulnerable family members in public spaces.

The hope remains that through ongoing dialogue between local businesses, authorities, and social services, a compassionate solution can be found that meets the needs of vulnerable individuals while also alleviating the challenges faced by the business community. This collaborative effort signals a commitment to fostering a caring environment for all residents of Nadi, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

In summary, addressing the issue of habitual begging in Nadi requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders, aiming to support those in need while ensuring a safer and more welcoming atmosphere for business operations. The prospects for meaningful change are strengthened by the collective commitment to social responsibility and community care.