A NEW strategy, coupled with a narcotics bureau are among the solutions the Fiji Government has taken on board to tackle Fiji’s widespread drug scourge.
Speaking to youths in Suva during a mind lecture and healing concert yesterday, Mr Rabuka said Fiji’s drug problem threatened the health, wellbeing and future of the country.
He said the drug crisis extended beyond personal addiction to impact families, communities and ultimately, the entire nation.
“Young people addicted to drugs lose the opportunity to realise their potential, and their dreams and hopes can be shattered,” he said.
Mr Rabuka said Cabinet had endorsed the National Counter Narcotics Strategy 2023-2028 two weeks ago. The key focus under this strategy, Mr Rabuka said, was to reduce demand for narcotics, reduce supply, reduce harm, legislative reform and data collection.
Apart from this, the strategy would also help with analysis and information sharing, establishment of a drug addiction treatment centre, and partnership, coordination and international cooperation.
“The strategy will be implemented through close collaboration between Government agencies, the private sector, civil society organisations including faith-based organisations, non-governmental organisations, media and academic institutions.”
In addition, he said Cabinet had approved the establishment of the Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau, an independent institution under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration.
It would be tasked with law enforcement, investigations, prosecutions, intelligence gathering and conducting awareness.
“Cabinet also approved the development of a Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau Bill to clearly establish the functions and powers of the bureau.
“The draft Bill will be considered by Cabinet following the public consultation process, before it is tabled in Parliament.”
He also said the drugs crisis and epidemic had fuelled an unprecedented increase in the incidence of HIV/AIDS.
“HIV/AIDS cases continue to increase daily, and the risk-taking behaviour of drug addicts will blight the rest of their lives and health and will have a negative impact on our families and communities.
“Addressing this issue requires all of our efforts, and youth mind education can be part of the solution.”
