The Tui Vuya Ratu Amenatave Rabona believes there has to be increased awareness about COVID-19 at the grassroots level.
The Bua chief said although most villages in his district had imposed movement restrictions over the past two months, many did not understand the illness itself.
This is an issue that must be considered urgently if that’s the case in this part of the country.
“I believe more awareness should be done and brought to our villages so people will understand what the coronavirus is, its harmful effects, the purpose of restrictions and discuss some queries our villagers might have,” he said.
In the report on Page 4 today, he said villagers in the district adhered very well to the advice given by authorities despite the fact they did not know much about it.
He said those who needed to provide for their families were allowed to do so.
Ratu Amenatave said a lot of villages within the district had kava schemes.
He said they made sure not more than 20 farmers worked at the farm in accordance with health protocols for instance.
The revelation will need to be looked at urgently as we continue on the campaign to keep the COVID-19 pandemic at bay.
It’s in our best interest that every Fijian clearly understands the impact of the virus on our lives, and why we must adhere strictly to rules that are designed to keep us safe.
The reality is that many people are still not adhering to social distancing rules for instance, even in the Capital City.
In many instances, there is no consideration for the 2 metre distance at all.
There appears to be a general slow shift back to pre-COVID-19 times.
That’s frightening.
This virus isn’t a joke at all.
We cannot afford to be complacent.
We cannot afford to shrug aside the pandemic and lie to ourselves that it isn’t going to affect us at all.
We may have contained it somewhat, however, we must be vigilant, and proactive moving forward.
There are nations around the world that are bracing themselves for a second wave of the pandemic.
We must adhere strictly to social distancing rules.
Keep a safe distance when out in our urban centres, or when going out for a walk or exercises. Do not shake hands, and no hugging please.
Cough or sneeze into your elbow, or into a tissue and dispose this safely, immediately. Reduce unnecessary travel. Remember there is still no vaccine.
Our safest plan is to fall back on prevention. That means making the effort to stay alert every day, for the sake of our loved ones, ourselves and for the country.
We should be part of the solution, to keep our nation safe, and get it back onto its feet.
