President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has urged individuals, families, and civil society to collaborate with the Government in combating the growing threat of illicit drugs, which he identifies as a silent force undermining families and communities throughout Fiji. He made this call during his address at the Bula Festival in Nadi on Saturday, highlighting a concerning correlation between drug abuse and the rising incidence of HIV among young people.
“The Government cannot battle the drug and HIV crisis alone. It is essential that we unite as a nation to protect the health of our children and our future,” stated Ratu Lalabalavu. He stressed that law enforcement agencies have issued similar calls for collective action, underlining the critical need for a unified community response to tackle these rising challenges.
In conjunction with the festival festivities, Miss Lion of Judah Security Services Lagilagi Alumeci Davu was crowned Miss Bula Festival 2025 and also won the Best Advocacy and Research Topic prize. Other accolades included the first runner-up title awarded to Arieta Naqai representing PSH Hospitals, and Grace Suvei, who claimed the second runner-up position for Miss Unique Rubber Stamp.
The Bula Festival not only serves as a cultural celebration but also provides a platform for discussing important social issues, echoing similar themes raised in previous events across Fiji. For example, during the Miss Vodafone Fiji Coral Coast Carnival, discussions about community resilience and combating addiction were key focal points, where Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka likened addiction’s effect to eroding waves, advocating for strong community engagement.
While President Lalabalavu’s address reflects the challenges faced by the nation, there is also a sense of hope as it encourages collective action, suggesting that through unity and resilience, families and communities can work together to create a healthier future for all Fijians. This could lead to a strengthened societal fabric, where the commitment of individuals and organizations demonstrates the potential for positive change in confronting societal issues.
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