Fiji Reaffirms United Front Against Illicit Drugs at National Observance – IDADAIT 2025
30 June, 2025 – Suva, Fiji – The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, today officiated the national observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT) 2025 on behalf of the Prime Minister.
Speaking at the Suva Civic Centre, Hon. Gavoka joined leaders, students, and faith-based groups to reinforce Fiji’s commitment to this year’s theme: “One Nation, One Goal: Illicit Drug-Free Fiji.”
He underscored the threat that illicit drugs pose to Fiji’s communities, economy, and reputation, particularly within the tourism and aviation sectors.
“There will be no happiness if we do not confront the shadows that threaten it,” he said, referencing the global brand message, “Fiji, Where Happiness Comes Naturally.”
Hon. Gavoka mentioned that at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation they had reconvened the Tourism Risk Mitigation Unit, which works with law enforcement and stakeholders to address risks such as drug trafficking and other threats to national security and visitor safety.
He also welcomed the government’s increased budget allocation for the Fiji Police Force, including a major recruitment drive for 1000 new officers, calling it “a vital investment in public confidence.”
The IDADAIT 2025 observance was marked nationwide, including the launch of the Illicit Drugs-Free Fiji: Integrated Planning Space (IDF-IPS), a coordinated response platform for prevention, enforcement, rehabilitation, and legal support.
Hon. Gavoka closed by urging every citizen to play their part:
“Let us build a Fiji where happiness truly comes naturally, through safe communities and a united national front against drugs.”
-ENDS-
To read more of the speech please click here
