The Lomaiviti Provincial Youth Festival concluded this past weekend after two days of athletic competitions designed to increase youth participation and address social challenges within the province. Held at Nasau Park on Ovalau Island, the event saw the participation of young people from all 12 districts across Lomaiviti. Activities included rugby sevens, women’s netball, and mixed volleyball.
Organized by the Fiji National Sports Commission, with backing from the Lomaiviti Provincial Office and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the festival aimed to energize youth involvement in sports while tackling pertinent social issues. In attendance was Youth and Sports Minister Jese Saukuru, who announced plans for another youth festival in the following year.
Minister Saukuru expressed gratitude to the various stakeholders such as traditional leaders and provincial officers for their support. He commended the leadership exhibited by the Turaga Roko Tui Lomaiviti and highlighted that the ministry provided sporting equipment to support future activities. In his address, he conveyed a serious warning about the growing drug problem in communities, stating that combating drug-related issues is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration between law enforcement, government, and the community.
He urged youth to be vigilant against practices such as “Bluetoothing,” which involves using contaminated needles to inject illicit drugs, linking it directly to rising HIV cases in Fiji. This focus on the dangers of drug abuse echoes sentiments expressed at other recent youth festivals, such as the Yasayasa Moala Youth Festival, where issues like drug addiction and social challenges were also prominent topics. In both forums, Minister Saukuru reiterated the need for community engagement and proactive measures to create a healthier, safer environment for young people.
The Lomaiviti Youth Festival not only aimed to revitalize youth engagement but also sought to provide a platform for crucial discussions surrounding personal and community well-being. With the continued involvement of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the hope remains that such initiatives will cultivate a future where Fiji’s youth are empowered to thrive and contribute positively to society.
Efforts like the Lomaiviti Provincial Youth Festival are therefore vital in shaping a healthier and more engaged youth demographic, fostering resilience and community unity against societal issues.