THE Rewa Provincial Council has taken a compassionate community-based approach in its efforts to address drug abuse among youth in the province.
Council chairman Ro Macanawai Mataitini told attendees at the Provincial Council meeting in Nadave, the issue was not one of punishment, but of responsibility and support.
He said the underlying cause of youth drug abuse ws not simply bad behaviour, but a deeper sense of disconnection and neglect.
“We are trying to play our part in eradicating the use of drugs in Rewa,” Ro Macanawai said.
“We began by setting up crime prevention committees in every village.
“The issue that was raised in the meeting was the kids, and the youths using drugs, it’s not their fault. They are unanchored.
“We, as parents, have failed them. We need to love them and our children.
“We can’t kick them out of the villages; the people need to love them and bring them back home.”
The provincial council is urging villages to take a more rehabilitative approach rather than enforcing Domestic Violence Restraining Orders or ostracising those struggling with addiction.
“So, this committee is looking at this and addressing it,” he said.
“We are looking at the problem positively on how we can address it.
“For the villages who enforce DVROs on those who take drugs in their communities, I don’t think that’s the solution.”
Members of the Rewa Provincial Council during afternoon break at Nadave, Bau, Tailevu.
Picture: ELIKI NUKUTABU
