The Government of Japan has joined forces with UNICEF to launch a transformative four-year project designed to protect children and adolescents in Fiji from an escalating drug crisis. The initiative, backed by an investment of USD 5.48 million, aims to positively impact over 150,000 children, including 10,000 adolescents identified as at-risk.
Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, Hiroshi Tajima, highlighted the importance of this partnership as a reflection of the strong and enduring bond between Japan and Fiji. This initiative comes in response to troubling trends in drug trafficking and abuse in the region, which have been underscored by recent statistics. From May 2024 to May 2025, Fiji reported 2,446 drug-related incidents, including 50 cases involving children. The Substance Abuse Advisory Council has also revealed a concerning rise in drug use among school-aged children, increasing from 2,400 cases in 2021 to 3,143 cases in 2025.
UNICEF Pacific Representative Hamish Young described the situation as urgent, noting that many children and adolescents are being caught in a crisis not of their making. He expressed appreciation for Japan’s prompt support, acknowledging the significant difference this partnership will make for vulnerable youth in Fiji.
The project aims to support 300 children and adolescents in legal conflict while providing assistance to thousands of teachers, service providers, community members, parents, and caregivers. Key features of the initiative include training parents in positive parenting practices, offering mentorship and life-skills training for adolescents, and enhancing the skills of educators, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and social workers. Furthermore, the initiative will focus on creating child- and adolescent-friendly environments, including the establishment of safe rooms in hospitals, sensitive interview areas in police stations, and dedicated counseling spaces in schools.
This ambitious program will be executed in collaboration with various governmental ministries, the Fiji Police Force, and civil society organizations, including faith-based groups. By addressing the immediate issues and fostering a supportive community, the initiative aims to build resilience and well-being among Fiji’s youth, guiding them toward a more hopeful and positive future.