Lenora Qereqeretabua, Fiji’s Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister, addressed an important issue in Parliament, urging citizens to take pride in their surroundings and reflect on their civic responsibilities regarding littering. She posed a thought-provoking question: “Where is your pride in your suburb, your village, your town?” emphasizing the affordability of rubbish bins compared to luxury items like alcohol, data, and fuel. Her intention was to spark a sense of accountability among Fijians, stressing that leaving trash in plastic bags for animals to scatter diminishes the community’s public spaces.
Qereqeretabua’s concerns resonate with those voiced by former Speaker of the House, Pita Nacuva, who has observed a decline in public responsibility regarding waste disposal over the years. Drawing from his experiences as the initial Director of Town and Country Planning, Nacuva reflected on how previous generations showcased greater care for waste management. He highlighted the ongoing issue of littering in public areas, asserting the need for robust educational campaigns to nurture an environmental consciousness within the community.
Both leaders advocate for increased awareness and collective action towards improved waste management practices in Fiji. Their call to promote civic pride and responsibility is particularly vital as the nation’s stunning landscapes face risks from littering, which can adversely affect tourism and public health.
Although managing waste presents challenges, the efforts of Qereqeretabua and Nacuva bring forth a positive vision for potential change in Fiji. They encourage community participation and engage the youth, reminding everyone that small contributions can lead to significant progress. By instilling a sense of pride and shared responsibility among Fijians, there is hope for a cleaner, more sustainable future, ensuring the preservation of the country’s natural beauty for future generations.
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