The Tui Sabeto Ratu Viliame Mataitoga and his vanua o Betoraurau have taken the lead in their fight against drugs, laying out strict measures in the seven districts to safeguard the well-being of their youths and people.
It came into effect on January 22, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol, no smoking and no substance abuse for five months.
The regulation was set by Ratu Viliame and his seven tribal chiefs (turaga ni yavusa).
According to Sabeto Village headman Joseva Naikovea, the year 2026 is marked as the year for supporting and strengthening youths.
“This new regulation is for both male and female between the ages of 18 and 35,” he said.
“The five villages in Betoraurau who will adhere to this initiative include Koroyaca, Narokorokoyawa, Natalau, Naboutini and Korobebe.
“It will be five months of discipline, especially in these challenging times we are facing.”
Mr Naikovea said about 700 people were taking part in this traditional Fijian moratorium.
“Most of them have been facing difficulties so the Tui Sabeto and his tribal chiefs thought of laying out a plan on protecting the lives of our people, especially their future well-being.
“For them to have a healthy life, do their jobs well and prioritise their families.
“We have witnessed a slight change when the restrictions started and today (Saturday) is the day that people would be making a lot of noise in the village but it has not happened.
“We are not doing this as a form of punishment; we want to protect our youth and people.
“The important thing about this restriction is that they should be mindful of their jobs, love and care of their parents and families, and respect of the elders in our community.
“And also, for them to focus on the good things in their lives every day.”
Mr Naikovea said this year was also marked as a year of restoration and blessings for the youths of Sabeto.
“I thank the vanua for doing this strict restriction because they know the end result that this initiative will bring to our people.
“There are also plans laid out by the vanua for the youth of Sabeto on job opportunities overseas, and securing local jobs in the hospitality industry.
“So, we need to discipline them and protect them for their future.”
