A front-page image of Fijian Drua halfback Frank Lomani graces The Fiji Times for October 8. Sports editor Rohit Deo embarks on a journey of understanding the Fijian Drua, shedding light on the team’s evolving habits and physical preparation as they participated in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Additionally, a book detailing the Fijian Drua’s journey is scheduled for launch on Wednesday, with further details available in the sports section.
The headline story reports on the alarming statistics surrounding teenage mothers in Fiji, revealing that between 2016 and 2019, approximately 1,000 babies were born annually to mothers aged 15 to 19. This information comes from a report by the Fiji Bureau of Statistics titled Putting Data and Evidence into Action: An Intersectional Profile of Adolescent Pregnancy and Motherhood in Fiji, highlighting a higher number of itaukei births compared to non-itaukei during this timeframe, with the youngest recorded mother being just 13 years old.
There is also discussion regarding foreign investors at a TLTB Land Use Master Plan stakeholders meeting in Suva, where CEO Solomoni Nata called for stricter vetting of investors who arrive without financial resources and depend on local fundraising for their businesses.
The findings regarding adolescent pregnancy are concerning, with a notable rise in fertility rates among both itaukei and non-itaukei mothers during this period. The report indicates a critical need for action to empower young women through education and employment opportunities, emphasizing the importance of open discussions surrounding these issues.
As the global community grapples with the implications of adolescent pregnancy, there is a pressing need in Fiji to foster supportive environments for young mothers and to prioritize sexual education and access to contraception. Community support programs that offer education and vocational training for young mothers, along with engagement from fathers and families, are essential for creating a nurturing atmosphere for young parents.
The data serves as a significant prompt for reflection and action, urging all stakeholders to consider the necessary steps needed to create change and support for the youth in Fiji.