A village in the west is taking proactive steps to address the ongoing social issues facing the country. The Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto has implemented strict measures to protect its children.
At the entrance of Sabeto Village, a prominent sign outlines key regulations, which state that children and students are prohibited from being outdoors after 9 PM, and all village entrances will close by 10 PM.
Village headman Josefa Naikovea emphasized that the Momo na Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, is committed to these initiatives. “One of our main concerns is the presence of illicit drugs, with needles discovered in the five villages within the Sabeto area,” he noted. He added, “These regulations are essential because our children are vulnerable and could be exploited by outsiders to traffic drugs.”
Following the appointment of the Tui Sabeto earlier this year, he held a meeting with the seven heads of clans under the Vanua o Betoraurau to discuss these rules, which are direct instructions from the Tui Sabeto.
“We are taking these steps to protect our children, who represent our future. Our traditional leaders are dedicated to safeguarding their community,” he stated. Naikovea mentioned that all village leaders in the Vanua O Betoraurau Sabeto are collaborating in the campaign against drugs.
He warned that disciplinary actions would be enforced against those who violate the rules. During a Ba Provincial Meeting in Namoli, there was a strong call for the establishment of strict laws to tackle the drug issue. “Anyone found dealing with illicit drugs will be expelled from the village,” he said, emphasizing the importance of communal awareness in the fight against substance abuse.