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 in an effort to protect their children.
Prominently displayed at the entrance of Sabeto Village is a sign with clear guidelines, which include:
– Children and students are prohibited from roaming the village after 9 p.m.
– All village entrances will be secured and closed by 10 p.m.
Village leader Josefa Naikovea stated that the Momo na Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, is firmly committed to these measures. “One of our main concerns is the presence of illegal drugs, with needles discovered in the five villages within the Sabeto area,” he explained.
“We have enacted these regulations to protect our children, who are at risk of being exploited by outsiders to transport drugs. After the installation of the Tui Sabeto early this year, he convened a meeting with the heads of seven Yavusa under the Vanua O Betoraurau.
“These laws are a directive from the Tui Sabeto. We are taking these actions to secure the safety of our children, as they represent our future. Our traditional leaders are here to safeguard their community.”
Naikovea emphasized that all village heads within the Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto are collaborating in the fight against drugs. He indicated that penalties will be enforced for those who violate the regulations.
During the Ba Provincial Meeting in Namoli, there was a call for the establishment of strict laws to combat the drug issue. Anyone caught dealing in illicit drugs will be expelled from the village.
“We have been informed that it is crucial for every villager to understand the significance of this fight against drugs,” he added.