08/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/19/2024 17:19
Government cannot fight the war against drugs alone, but through the concerted efforts of every Fijian in the country.
This was the plea by the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu to youths of Narewa Village in Nadi today.
Hon. Rayalu officiated at the handing over of a new tractor to youths in Narewa and also spoke about the rise, in the use and abuse of drugs in Fiji.
"As Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, it is also my prerogative to talk about drugs and how it is affecting our youths, who are going to be our leaders tomorrow," stressed Hon. Rayalu.
"The number of cases is very alarming and I want to make it my business to raise this issue everywhere I go. Everyone must make it their business to keep informed of the progress that is happening around us, especially with the escalating drug cases and rise in HIV Aids through the sharing of needles."
"I want you, the youths of Narewa to work together and help your communities to fight against drugs entering your village and infiltrating your homes and family members. Do the right thing and stay away from drugs because the consequences is devastating," pleaded Hon. Rayalu.
He added that the country is depending on youths to make the right choices because the future of this country is in their hands.
"I am grateful that youths of Narewa have strengthened their youth cooperative and have been turning to farming for a living. There is a lot of potential in the land if you remain focused and work hard. Money is in the land so you must stick to farming and stay away from drugs," added Hon. Rayalu.
The youths in Narewa thanked Hon. Rayalu for the assistance by the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways through the provision of their new tractor.
The Sa Dina Youth Cooperative was assisted under the ministry's Farm Mechanisation Program.
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