During a recent consultation in Nausori, stakeholders highlighted the urgent need for enhanced and proactive leadership within villages to guide young people away from the influences of drugs and criminal activities. The gathering was organized by the Ministry of Policing and centered on discussions around a draft counter-narcotics framework.
Venina Vakarusese was pivotal in expressing her concerns at the meeting, emphasizing what she perceives as weak leadership among village headmen. She pointed out that the current lack of strong direction is failing to adequately engage youth within their communities.
Vakarusese advocated for regular village meetings aimed directly at youth, where they would have the opportunity to receive education about the dangers associated with drug use. “There should be village meetings called regularly, where young people can be addressed by police representatives or relevant authorities regarding the effects of drugs,” she stated. Her call for action underscored the importance of consistent guidance, noting that young individuals remain susceptible to negative influences.
Additionally, she emphasized the necessity of involving families in these preventive measures. “These types of village meetings should be inclusive of families where parents should also attend and be educated to help our youth,” Vakarusese suggested. This collaborative effort could strengthen the community’s ability to support its younger members effectively.
On the topic of leadership accountability, Vakarusese urged that ineffective village headmen should be replaced with more proactive individuals, stating, “If the village headman is not doing his job, let’s have someone that is vocal and enthusiastic about the need to help our youth.”
By fostering strong leadership and promoting consistent community engagement, Vakarusese believes that it is possible to create a supportive environment for young people, thereby shielding them from the pressures that can lead to drug abuse and criminal behaviors. Her insights reflect a hopeful outlook on the community’s potential to enact positive change through collaboration and empowerment.