The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Sashi Kiran, convened a high-level meeting with key ministers to discuss urgent strategies to combat the growing issue of the increase in street dwellers, drug use, and abuse among our youths as well as the increasing number of HIV-positive cases, especially among our youths.
Attending the meeting were the Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Hon. Ifereimi Vasu; Minister for Justice, Hon. Siromi Turaga; Minister for Policing, Hon. Ioane Naivalurua; Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hon. Maciu Nalumisa; and Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka, along with their respective Permanent Secretaries.
Discussions focused on cross-sectoral strategies to enhance rehabilitation and reintegration programs for young street dwellers. Principal Welfare Officer Salote Biukoto provided insights into existing data from profiling exercises conducted in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, as well as partnerships with organisations such as Inspire Pacific and the Salvation Army. These efforts have been pivotal in understanding the challenges and formulating targeted interventions.
A key outcome of the meeting was the ministers’ agreement on the need to strengthen and enforce existing laws to deter individuals from moving to and living on the streets of major towns and cities. An update was provided on work currently underway on the setup of rehabilitation centres to support young street dwellers struggling with drug use.
Minister Kiran stated that referral pathways were identified for rehabilitation and community integration. The ministers committed to strengthening pathways for income-generating projects, housing solutions, and community reintegration programs to help these individuals reconnect with their village communities and build stable futures.
Minister Kiran emphasised the urgency of a collaborative approach to address the root causes of street dwelling and drug abuse.
“This is a crisis that requires a united front. By working together across ministries and engaging with community partners, we can implement effective initiatives that provide support, rehabilitation, and a pathway for these vulnerable youths to rebuild their lives,” said Minister Kiran.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all ministers to enhance coordination, expand intervention programs, and implement sustainable solutions to safeguard the welfare of Fiji’s young people.