“When Lotu, Vanua, and Matanitu stand together, Fiji becomes stronger.”
This was the strong message delivered by the Minister for Policing and Communications Hon. Ioane Naivalurua, while speaking at the launch of the Mission Veikauwaitaki in Suva yesterday (23:02:2026).
The Methodist Church in Fiji pre-launched its three-year national Prayer and Fasting Campaign to combat illicit drug use and the rise of HIV and AIDS in Fiji yesterday.
The official launch will take place on March 1, 2026 in Suva, beginning with a Peaceful March of Witness through the streets of the capital and culminating in a national worship service at Albert Park.
Minister Naivalurua stated that the three-year continuous chain prayer across 59 divisions demonstrates seriousness and unity.
“The Methodist Church of Fiji is saying clearly: we will not stand by while drugs and HIV threaten our young people, our families, and the moral fabric of our nation,” Minister Naivalurua said.
Reflecting on the recent National Pastoral Response to Drugs, Minister Naivalurua stressed that drug abuse and HIV are shared social, family, and spiritual issues, that silence has cost too much, and that with the Church’s leadership through Mission Veikauwaitaki, the response would move from conversation to action.
“The Government cannot arrest our way out of this crisis.
“We need the Church, we need the Vanua, we need parents, we need communities.
“Government carries authority within the law, the Church carries moral and spiritual influence, and the Vanua carries relational accountability.”
Acknowledging the leadership of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, Hon. Naivalurua described Mission Veikauwaitaki as “structured and comprehensive.”
“It addresses spiritual formation, family strengthening, youth protection, training and awareness, reintegration, collaboration, and accountability."
Hon. Naivalurua emphasised that moving forward requires depth in prayer, family support, and early intervention, alongside concentration, clear leadership, accountability, and unity.
The President of the Methodist Church in Fiji Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou, said that the participation of the Fiji Police Force, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and partners in iTaukei Affairs reflects the nation standing united.
Rev. Turagavou outlined the objectives of the initiative, which are to:
· Mobilise the Church in prayer and fasting for national healing
· Publicly declare a firm stance against drugs, HIV, and AIDS
· Promote unity among churches, communities, government, NGOs, and the Vanua
· Offer hope, support, and restoration to those already affected
The initiative reflects the Church's deep concern over the illegal importation, distribution, and use of illicit drugs, as well as the increasing spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, particularly among young people.