THE Great Council of Chiefs chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula has called on chiefs and traditional leaders to closely monitor their coastlines.
This call comes after more than 60 bricks of cocaine were reported to have washed ashore on the islands of Ogea, Moce and Komo in Lau.
Ratu Viliame said the bai ni vualiku was now being used to transport illicit drugs.
“While the drug problem in Vanua Levu may not be as severe as it is in Viti Levu, the threat is real and growing,” he said.
He said villages could no longer assume they were immune from the problem.
“This is the time for district representatives, traditional leaders and communities to work together to protect our people.”
He made these comments while opening the Macuata Provincial Council meeting in Naduri yesterday.
He said every village had its own tokatoka, tikina and mataqali, which had traditionally provided support, guidance and a sense of belonging to community members.
“These traditional structures had helped Pacific communities remain united and grounded in their values despite changing social and economic conditions.
“As development progressed across Pacific Island countries, these traditional structures and teachings helped keep communities united and grounded in their values.
“However, over time, some of our cultural practices and customs have begun to fade. This is one of the challenges that comes with modern development.”
He said communities needed to strengthen traditional values and family relationships to counter the growing influence of drugs.
“We are working to address these issues and strengthen the values that have held our communities together for generations.
“We must continue the fight against drugs, although it is a challenge that cannot be eliminated overnight.”
He urged parents to spend more time with their children and families, saying awareness and guidance at home were critical in preventing substance abuse.
“No community can assume it is immune from the threat of drugs. We must be prepared and vigilant.
“Parents and families should spend more time with their children and loved ones to help build strong family relationships and awareness.”
He said villages could better address the challenges they faced by standing united, educating young people and preserving their cultural values.
