A village in the West is taking proactive steps to address ongoing social issues within the country. The Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto is implementing strict regulations aimed at protecting children in the area.
Prominently displayed at the entrance of Sabeto Village is a signboard with clear directives, including:
– Children and students are prohibited from moving around the village after 9 PM.
– All village entrances or gates will be closed after 10 PM.
Village headman Josefa Naikovea emphasized the seriousness of these measures, noting they were initiated by Momo na Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga.
“We have significant concerns regarding the presence of illicit drugs, with needles discovered in five surrounding villages in the Sabeto area,” he explained. “We established these rules to protect our children, who are vulnerable and could be exploited by outsiders to traffic drugs.”
Following the installation of the Tui Sabeto earlier this year, a meeting was held with the heads of seven Yavusa under the Vanua o Betoraurau, leading to the implementation of these laws as directives from the Tui Sabeto.
“We are doing this to ensure the safety of our children, who represent our future,” he stated. “Our traditional leaders are committed to protecting their communities.”
Naikovea mentioned that all village heads in the Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto are collaborating in the fight against drug abuse. He warned that disciplinary actions would be taken against those who violate the new regulations.
During a recent Ba Provincial Meeting in Namoli, the community was urged to establish stringent laws to tackle the drug issue. Anyone found dealing in illicit drugs will be expelled from the village.
“We have been informed that it is essential for every villager to recognize the importance of this battle against drugs,” he added.