The residents of Vakabuli Village in Lautoka have come together to impose a ban on drugs, alcohol, and yaqona, marking a significant commitment to the well-being of their community. This decision followed a church service earlier this month, where representatives of the six mataqali that compose the Yavusa Saqele unanimously agreed on the need for these restrictions.
Ratu Viliame Naulivou, the newly appointed Sau Turaga and head of the mataqali Botelaki, has been a prominent advocate for this initiative. He emphasized the importance of unity within the village and the surrounding Ba Province, declaring, “The six mataqali representatives of Yavusa Saqele, Vakabuli Village, Tikina Vitogo, Yasana Ba, stand united in declaring ‘no to drugs.’”
This initiative has seen the collaboration of various village leaders, including the Methodist Church of Fiji and the Apostle Gospel Outreach Fellowship, as well as youth and women’s groups. They gathered in solidarity, led by village headman Tevita Vosa, to reinforce their commitment to protecting the community and future generations.
Ratu Viliame expressed that this collective stand also signifies their rejection of negative influences that could jeopardize their way of life. “This initiative reflects a collective decision by the vanua, the church, women, and youth to uphold discipline, faith, unity, and responsibility,” he noted. “Vakabuli chooses life, order and hope.”
The determination displayed by the community of Vakabuli not only highlights their commitment to a drug-free environment but also serves as an inspiring example of unity and proactive measures against societal challenges. Their collective voice sends a hopeful message that communities can work together to foster a safer and healthier future for their children and families.
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