Nadi Town Council’s special administrator, Prem Singh, has voiced his optimism regarding the urgent need for the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Shashi Kiran, to address the rising number of street dwellers in Nadi. Singh emphasizes that a collaborative approach is essential, urging the involvement of government ministries, social welfare services, and religious organizations in outreach efforts to combat homelessness and reduce instances of loitering.

During a recent meeting with the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, Singh stressed the importance of continuous monitoring and cooperation among various government agencies, particularly those dealing with land, education, and the iTaukei community, to create effective solutions for the city’s social challenges. He expressed a need for comprehensive social welfare interventions to address the issues associated with street begging and the welfare of marginalized individuals.

In response, Minister Kiran acknowledged the critical role of collaboration among local organizations, including churches and non-governmental organizations. She noted the complexities faced by Nadi’s social welfare office, which regularly deals with intricate cases involving drugs, family violence, and mental health issues. Kiran provided a troubling example of a man exploiting a partially blind child for begging, underscoring the urgency for protective measures and intervention strategies for vulnerable individuals.

Local business owners, notable figures like Ashfaaq Khan and Marc McElrath, have raised concerns over disturbances caused by street beggars on their operations, advocating for a unified response from authorities to maintain a safe and clean environment for both residents and customers. Their concerns highlight a community effort to find a balanced solution that addresses the needs of the homeless while also considering local businesses’ welfare.

There is a hopeful outlook for Nadi as the ongoing discussions between local authorities, businesses, and community organizations reflect a collective commitment to supporting both vulnerable populations and ensuring a secure and harmonious community. By fostering dialogue and cooperation, meaningful interventions have the potential to emerge, promoting compassion and shared responsibility in addressing the complexities of homelessness and social inequities.

In summary, the collaborative efforts currently underway in Nadi highlight the importance of a united approach to tackle homelessness, ultimately paving the way for significant positive change within the community.