Ratu Tevita Mara, known as the Tui Nayau, has urged for a collaborative effort among government officials, community leaders, and religious figures to confront the rising drug crisis in Fiji. Speaking on the gravity of recent drug seizures throughout the nation, he described these occurrences as significant threats to the future of Fiji’s youth.
In his remarks, Ratu Tevita asserted that inaction is no longer tenable. He proposed the development of a thorough government Strategy and Action Plan designed to safeguard Fijians and inspire hope within the younger population. He expressed alarm over the rising frequency of drug-related crimes, which he believes undermines the very fabric of local communities and endangers youth.
Ratu Tevita emphasized the need for a comprehensive, national strategy to tackle this pressing issue, indicating that socio-economic challenges such as poverty, inadequate education, and increasing unemployment are luring young people toward illegal pursuits. He pointed out the necessity of creating accessible employment pathways and integrating drug awareness into educational programs as early as primary school.
He warned that failure to respond effectively could result in an entire generation being lost to crime. Advocating for a holistic approach, he stressed the importance of instilling cultural values and helping youth to reconnect with their vanua, thereby deepening their understanding of their identity and cultural heritage. Ratu Tevita also noted the vital role that traditional leadership structures, such as vuvale, tokatoka, mataqali, and yavusa, can play in this initiative.
Recognizing the efforts of organizations like YADRA, which aims to rehabilitate and support marginalized youth, Ratu Tevita’s call reflects an urgent concern for the well-being of Fiji’s younger generation and the broader future of society. By fostering unity and deploying strategic actions, there is hope that Fiji can effectively address the drug crisis and encourage a renewed sense of purpose and identity among its youth.