Review targets social challenges

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Minister of Finance Esrom Immanuel, left, and his permanent secretary Shiri Gounder after last Friday’s Budget announcement.

THE Government will review its Religious and Moral Enhancement Initiatives as it moves to confront growing social problems, including drug abuse, rising HIV infections and the erosion of family and community values.

Delivering the 2026-2027 National Budget yesterday, Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel said economic growth alone would not be enough to address the country’s social challenges.

“We are witnessing growing social concerns across our communities, including drug abuse, rising HIV infections, erosion of moral values and the breakdown of family and community support systems,” Mr Immanuel said.

He said the Government would undertake a comprehensive review of existing Religious and Moral Enhancement Initiatives to identify practical measures to strengthen families, communities and national values. “This review will focus on how Government, faith-based organisations, schools and communities can work together to build a safer, healthier and more caring society.”

Mr Immanuel said strengthening community leadership and preventative programs would complement the Government’s broader economic agenda, acknowledging that sustainable national development depended not only on economic progress but also on strong families, resilient communities and shared values.