The Nabukarabe Youth Club has received a vital boost this week with funding allocated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports through its income-generating project grant. The announcement was made by Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, who reaffirmed a promise made during last year’s Cakaudrove Youth Festival.
Minister Saukuru emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering youth clubs throughout Fiji, notably in the more remote areas of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. He spoke candidly about the pressing issues confronting young people today, including drug abuse, which he associated with increasing rates of HIV and AIDS.
During his speech, the Minister called for heightened community engagement, encouraging youth to avoid drugs and work collaboratively to address these significant challenges. He stressed that tackling drug-related problems is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the Fiji Police Force and the government, requiring the active involvement of the entire community.
The funding directed to the Nabukarabe Youth Club is poised to empower local youth, equipping them with resources to create positive initiatives that divert them from harmful behaviors and encourage a healthier, more productive lifestyle. This support not only signifies a hopeful future for the youth in Fiji but also fosters resilience and a strong community spirit among the islands’ young people.