THE province of Lau is struggling to combat the growing threat of drugs because of a declining population and limited opportunities for young people, according to Roko Tui Lau, Jioji Kalounivalu.
“The last village profile we did showed about 9000 people on the islands, but in 2023, the count dropped to around 6800,” Mr Kalounivalu said.
He added that many villages no longer have the capacity to address social problems such as drug use.
“Most villages have very low populations and don’t have the capacity to contribute much to the fight against drugs.”
To counter the trend, the province is focusing on encouraging young people to return to Lau and engage in constructive activities that will steer them away from drugs and crime.
One key initiative is the planned reopening of Ratu Mara College as a vocational centre in Lakeba, in partnership with Fiji National University (FNU). The centre will equip young people with skills to build a livelihood locally rather than depending on urban employment.
The province is also working to revive the Lau Youth Council at the provincial level and encouraging traditional leaders currently living in urban areas to return home to guide their communities.
“The older population holds traditional leadership positions, so we are trying to get them back to lead their communities.”
However, a lack of infrastructure and health facilities remains a major obstacle.
“Most of the elderly require regular medical attention, so that’s something we have to look at.”
The initiatives reflect Lau’s efforts to strengthen community resilience, combat drugs, and create sustainable opportunities for its youth despite ongoing demographic and geographic challenges.
