Rise in drug abuse among street dwellers, many tested positive for HIV - Kiran

The rise in drug abuse, HIV cases and homelessness among Fiji’s youth population has become a growing crisis and the government is ramping up efforts to address these issues.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran highlighted this during a high-level meeting with key Ministers yesterday.

Kiran says the discussions focused on strengthening rehabilitation programs, enforcing laws to discourage street dwelling and creating better support systems for vulnerable youth.

She says officials shared alarming data showing a rise in drug abuse among street dwellers, with many also testing positive for HIV.

She further says that groups like the Salvation Army and Inspire Pacific have been working closely with authorities, but the crisis continues to grow.

The Minister says a key outcome of the meeting was the decision to tighten laws preventing street dwellings and accelerate plans for rehabilitation centers.

Kiran says that the Ministers have also committed to improving housing solutions, income-generating projects and reintegration programs to help young people rebuild their lives.

The Minister stresses that solving this crisis requires a united effort from ministries, organizations and communities.

She adds that the meeting ended with a firm commitment to expand intervention programs and create long-term solutions for Fiji’s struggling youth.