Fiji’s Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Minister, Sakiasi Ditoka, has strongly criticized the ongoing issue of littering, calling it an “ugly and obscene act.” He highlighted the significant consequences of indiscriminate litter disposal, particularly its role in blocking drains and contributing to flooding in urban areas. Mr. Ditoka emphasized the need for proactive measures to combat this challenge, stating, “That’s one of the concerns we also have; the flooding in towns and cities, because of the drains that are blocked, because of the rubbish that we continue to throw.”
To address this pressing issue, he expressed optimism regarding the forthcoming enhancements to the Litter Act, which aims to enforce stricter penalties for littering. Additionally, the training of litter enforcement officers is currently underway, with the goal of fostering a culture of responsible waste disposal among the populace.
Mr. Ditoka also advocated for the integration of proper litter disposal education into the school curriculum, suggesting that instilling these values from a young age could reshape societal attitudes towards littering. He reminisced about a time when individuals were immediately corrected for littering and expressed hope for a return to those values. “Hopefully, we’ll change it back to making Fiji a clean place and also a safe place,” he remarked.
In summary, Minister Ditoka’s call to action reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and community education, aiming to cultivate a clean and safe environment for all Fijians. Through effective legislation and educational initiatives, there is potential for positive changes in litter management and community behavior.
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