Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs Pio Tikoduadua is urging families and communities to take an active role in protecting young people from illicit drugs, warning that the future of Fiji's children is at stake.
Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl at Albert Park in Suva on Saturday, Tikoduadua says drug abuse is damaging families, harming communities and taking away opportunities from young people.
He says the fight against drugs is everyone's responsibility and cannot be left to Police and other authorities alone.
As part of this year's Ratu Sukuna Bowl campaign, members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and Fiji Police Force will visit schools and communities in Nadi, Lautoka and Labasa on November 12 and 14 to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit drugs.
Government representatives will also participate in the awareness programmes.
This year's competition carries the theme "Drug-Free Fiji" and the slogan "One Goal, Our Mission".
Tikoduadua says the Ratu Sukuna Bowl is more than a sporting competition between the RFMF and Fiji Police Force, as it also provides an opportunity to promote drug awareness and encourage communities to protect young people.
He says that, as a father whose children serve in both the military and Police, he understands the concerns families have about drug-related crime and the safety of their loved ones.
The Minister stresses that drug abuse can damage physical and mental health, contribute to crime and place additional pressure on families and communities.
Tikoduadua is calling on every Fijian to reject illicit drugs, make responsible choices and work together to protect the next generation.
