YOUTHS are no longer staying silent about the crippling effects of drugs on their communities.
Across Fiji, young people are speaking out and calling for stronger community support, education, and rehabilitation as drug use continues to rise.
One of these youths is 18-year-old Nishal Narayan of Baulevu.
Narayan, who served as the Minister for Agriculture during last year’s Youth Parliament, strongly believes that youths have more power than they realise when it comes to tackling drug issues in their communities.
As a youth leader and entrepreneur, Narayan said starting conversations about drugs is the first step towards addressing the problem. He believes that staying silent about drug issues only protects and worsens the situation.
Concerned by how quickly drugs are affecting young people, Narayan reached out to youths around the country to hear their views on Fiji’s drug situation.
“These youths are calling for stronger border checks and accountability on drugs.
True accountability on drugs means everyone plays a role – when a community stands together and takes responsibility, drugs can be reduced and lives can be protected.
“We need to reduce and prevent drug use amongst our youths. Youths must look out for each other.
“The rise in drug issues in Fiji is a threat to youths and Fiji’s future.”
He said the issue cannot be solved overnight but ignoring it could cost Fiji its future.
“Let’s stand strong together to protect our nation’s future because a strong Fiji starts with drug-free youths.”
Narayan also urged youths to encourage positive choices instead of covering up harmful behaviour. He highlighted that many youths he has spoken to about drugs do not feel safe in their own communities.
“As most of our youths would be voting in the coming election, it’s important that we vote to make a change in our drug problem.”
He hopes that youths will continue to engage in discussions and participate in programs that help prevent drug use across the country.
