YOUNG people need alternative sources of income if Government efforts to tackle drug-related activities are to succeed, Youth and Sports Minister Jese Saukuru says.
Mr Saukuru said the issue required cooperation between Government ministries, traditional institutions and communities.
“We really have to work in collaboration with other people. It’s not simple. It’s not easy. It’s a big task where everyone must come together,” he said.
He said the iTaukei Affairs Ministry, the Great Council of Chiefs and other government departments all had roles to play.
Mr Saukuru said ministries such as agriculture and fisheries also needed to be involved in creating alternative livelihoods for young people.
“If you want to take away drugs, something that they’ve been selling and making their living from, then you need to give them something else.”
He said young people needed practical alternatives that could provide them with income.
“That means you have to give them alternative livelihoods.”
He said assistance with business activities was one way of helping young people move away from harmful activities.
He also highlighted the role of sports in engaging young people.
He cited Kadavu as an example where sports were being used to engage youths and keep them occupied.
“A coordinated approach involving government agencies and communities is needed to provide young people with sustainable opportunities.”
He said addressing youth involvement in drugs was not the responsibility of the Ministry of Youth and Sports alone.
