The fight against Fiji’s escalating drug crisis will be strengthened through the establishment of two specialised rehabilitation facilities for vulnerable boys, under the 2026-2027 National Budget.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran announced the initiative while contributing to the 2026-2027 National Budget debate in Parliament on Monday.
“In direct response to the escalating national drug crisis, we are supporting Empower Pacific to establish a dedicated alcohol and drug recovery centre for boys in Lautoka,” Ms Kiran said.
She said the budget also supported the establishment of a specialised rehabilitation facility in Suva for boys found living on the streets through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity.
“These children cannot be accommodated within our existing residential care homes due to their exposure to illicit substances and health complexities like HIV.
“They require a highly specialised rehabilitation environment to stabilise and heal before they can be successfully reintegrated into formal educational institutions.”
Ms Kiran said the budget also provided funding to upgrade the Fiji Juvenile Rehabilitation and Development Centre, while a 26.9 per cent increase in funding for community-based corrections facilities reflected Government’s commitment to rehabilitation, reintegration and alternatives to institutional care.
She also announced the launch of Fiji’s first dedicated parenting app, developed in partnership with UNICEF to help reduce child abuse and neglect.
“The safety and well-being of our children dictate the future of our nation.
“Studies show that structured parenting programs reduce child neglect and abuse by up to 45 per cent.”
Ms Kiran said the digital platform complemented existing child protection services, including continued funding for the toll-free Child Helpline 1325, ensuring children in distress could access immediate assistance.
