Fiji is poised to open its first National Alcohol and Drug Recovery Centre as part of a strategic initiative to combat rising substance abuse issues. Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu emphasized the growing need for such services, which are expected to increase significantly in the coming years.
In a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and faith-based organizations, the Ministry of Health is spearheading efforts to create a comprehensive framework for treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration. This multi-million-dollar project is being developed in partnership with Quaker and will begin with a national consultancy under the Australia-Fiji Health Program to assess the current gaps in drug rehabilitation services.
Dr. Lalabalavu explained that this consultancy will involve analyzing drug use across the nation and engaging with multiple sectors to provide recommendations for necessary policy, legal, and operational reforms. He anticipates that final approval from the South Korean National Assembly for the facility’s development will occur in December this year, with construction expected to take at least five years.
Once operational, the new centre aims to offer a range of services including clinical care, structured rehabilitation programs, staff training for healthcare workers, and national awareness campaigns to foster community reintegration for individuals affected by substance use disorders. Dr. Lalabalavu recognizes the role of existing civil society organizations already providing rehabilitation services and assures that the Ministry will work in conjunction with all relevant stakeholders to enhance these efforts.
This initiative reflects a broader acknowledgment of the urgent need to address substance abuse in Fiji, aligning with previous discussions led by individuals such as Reverend Simione Tugi, who have advocated for the development of rehabilitation facilities to support communities impacted by addiction.
The establishment of the National Alcohol and Drug Recovery Centre signifies a pivotal advancement in Fiji’s response to the substance abuse crisis, promoting a rehabilitative approach that not only addresses addiction but also seeks to restore dignity and hope for those affected, ultimately creating a healthier society.