A village in the West is taking proactive steps to address significant social issues affecting the country. The Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto is implementing strict regulations aimed at protecting local children.
A prominent sign at the entrance of Sabeto Village clearly states the following directives:
– Children and students are prohibited from roaming the village after 9 PM.
– All entrances to the village will be closed after 10 PM.
Village headman Josefa Naikovea emphasized the seriousness of these measures as voiced by Momo na Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga. He expressed concern over the rise of illicit drug use, noting that needles have been discovered in the five villages of the Sabeto area.
“We have enacted these rules to protect our children, who are at risk of being exploited by outsiders to traffic drugs,” Naikovea stated. He added that after the Tui Sabeto’s installation earlier this year, he convened a meeting with the heads of the seven Yavusa under the Vanua o Betoraurau to discuss these urgent measures.
“This initiative is aimed at ensuring the safety of our children, who represent the future of our community,” he continued. “Our traditional leaders are committed to safeguarding their people.”
Naikovea confirmed that all village heads within the Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto are collaborating on the fight against drugs. He warned that disciplinary actions would be enforced for those who disregard the regulations.
During the recent Ba Provincial Meeting in Namoli, officials encouraged the establishment of stringent laws to combat the issue of illicit drugs. Individuals caught involved in drug dealing will face expulsion from the village.
“We have all been briefed on the importance of this collective effort against drugs,” he added.