A village in the West is taking proactive steps to address ongoing social issues in the country. The Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto is implementing strict regulations within the village to protect its children.
At the entrance of Sabeto Village, a prominent sign clearly states the following rules:
– Children and students are not allowed to move around the village after 9 PM.
– All entrances or gates to the village will be closed after 10 PM.
Village headman Josefa Naikovea emphasized that Momo na Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, is committed to enforcing these measures.
“One of our major concerns is the presence of illicit drugs, with needles being discovered in the five villages in the Sabeto area,” he explained. “These laws are necessary because our children are at risk and could be exploited by outsiders to transport drugs.”
After the Tui Sabeto was installed earlier this year, he held a meeting with the heads of the seven Yavusa under the Vanua O Betoraurau. “These regulations are a directive from the Tui Sabeto,” Naikovea noted.
“We are implementing these measures to protect our children, who represent our future. Our traditional leaders are dedicated to safeguarding their communities.”
He added that all village heads in the Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto are collaborating in the fight against drug-related issues. Mr. Naikovea stated that disciplinary measures would be enforced for those who disobey the rules, and anyone caught dealing with illicit drugs will be expelled from the village.
“We have been informed that every villager must understand the significance of participating in this battle against drugs,” he concluded.