The Lomaiviti Provincial Youth Festival wrapped up this past weekend following two days of vibrant athletic activities aimed at promoting youth engagement and addressing social challenges within the community. Taking place at Nasau Park on Ovalau Island, the festival witnessed enthusiastic participation from young individuals representing all 12 districts of Lomaiviti. Highlights of the event included competitions in rugby sevens, women’s netball, and mixed volleyball.
Organized by the Fiji National Sports Commission, with support from the Lomaiviti Provincial Office and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the festival focused on invigorating youth involvement in sports while tackling critical social issues. Youth and Sports Minister Jese Saukuru attended the event and announced plans for another youth festival next year, showcasing a commitment to ongoing youth development.
During his address, Minister Saukuru expressed his appreciation to various stakeholders, including traditional leaders and provincial officers, for their integral support. He praised the leadership of the Turaga Roko Tui Lomaiviti and highlighted the ministry’s provision of sporting equipment to facilitate future activities. Minister Saukuru also addressed the pressing issue of drug abuse in communities, emphasizing that combating this growing problem is a shared responsibility that necessitates collaboration among law enforcement, government officials, and the community.
He cautioned youth to remain vigilant against hazardous practices like “Bluetoothing,” which involves using contaminated needles for drug injection and has been linked to increasing HIV rates in Fiji. This message reflects concerns voiced at other recent youth festivals, such as the Yasayasa Moala Youth Festival, where discussions about drug addiction and social challenges were prevalent. Across both platforms, he reiterated the importance of community involvement and proactive measures to foster a healthier and safer environment for young people.
The Lomaiviti Youth Festival served not just as a catalyst for youth engagement in sports but also as a crucial venue for discussing personal well-being and community health. With the continuous support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, there is hope that these initiatives will empower the youth of Fiji, equipping them to thrive and make positive contributions to society.
Events like the Lomaiviti Provincial Youth Festival are essential in nurturing a healthier, more engaged youth demographic, fostering resilience and unity against societal challenges while building a brighter future for the community.