Nadi Town Council’s special administrator Prem Singh is calling for expedited action from Shashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, regarding the rising number of street dwellers in Nadi. Singh stressed that collaboration between government ministries, social welfare services, and religious organizations is essential for addressing homelessness and reducing loitering effectively.

Speaking at a recent meeting with the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, Singh highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring and cooperation among various government agencies, including those focusing on land, education, and the iTaukei community. He argued that a coordinated approach is vital to mitigating the challenges posed by street begging.

Minister Kiran echoed Singh’s concerns, emphasizing that collaboration is crucial for creating effective strategies to support vulnerable populations. She mentioned the complex cases often faced by the local social welfare office, which deals with issues like drug-related incidents and family violence. Kiran pointed out a specific incident in which a man was using a partially blind child for begging, underscoring the necessity for protective measures for such vulnerable individuals.

Local business owners, including Ashfaaq Khan and Marc McElrath, have expressed their frustrations over the disturbances caused by street dwellers near their establishments. They advocate for a united response from authorities to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for both the community and businesses.

Despite these challenges, the community’s commitment to working together reflects a hopeful outlook for Nadi. By fostering dialogue and cooperation, meaningful interventions may emerge, ultimately supporting those in need while ensuring a secure environment for all residents and businesses.

In summary, the collaborative efforts currently underway in Nadi highlight an essential pathway to effectively tackle homelessness, fostering a compassionate community that embraces both the marginalized and local enterprises. This spirit of cooperation is pivotal in addressing the complexities of homelessness and social inequities.