A village in the western region is taking proactive steps to address ongoing social issues within the country. The Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto is implementing strict regulations to protect its children.
At the entrance of Sabeto Village, a prominent sign displays key rules:
– Children and students are prohibited from roaming within the village after 9 PM.
– All village entrances will be closed by 10 PM.
Village headman Josefa Naikovea highlighted that Momo na Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, is committed to these regulations. He noted concerns regarding the presence of illegal drugs, with needles reportedly found in five villages within the Sabeto area.
“We established these rules because our children are vulnerable and could be exploited by outsiders to smuggle drugs,” Naikovea explained. After the Tui Sabeto was appointed earlier this year, he convened a meeting with the seven Yavusa leaders under Vanua o Betoraurau to discuss these measures.
“These regulations are directives from the Tui Sabeto,” Naikovea emphasized. He stressed the importance of protecting children for the future and reaffirmed the commitment of traditional leaders to safeguard their community.
Naikovea also mentioned that all village leaders within the Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto are uniting in their efforts against drug issues. Disciplinary actions will be enforced against those who fail to comply with these regulations. During the recent Ba Provincial Meeting in Namoli, participants were urged to establish stringent laws to combat the illegal drug problem.
“If anyone is found dealing in illegal drugs, they will be expelled from the village,” Naikovea stated. He confirmed that every villager needs to understand the significance of this fight against drugs.