Fiji has moved to strengthen its child protection system with the groundbreaking of a new rehabilitation centre that will provide care and support for vulnerable boys.

The new facility, an initiative of the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, will offer temporary accommodation for boys aged 10 to 18 years, providing a safe environment where they can access counselling, healthcare, psychosocial services, educational support, life skills training and rehabilitation programmes.

The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu and attended by Siromi Turaga, Agni Deo Singh, and Ratu Sanaila Madanavosa.

The centre has been developed to meet the growing demand for specialised services for children identified through street outreach operations involving the Fiji Police Force, municipal councils and other partner organisations.

Many of the children have experienced abuse, neglect, family breakdown, violence, substance abuse and exploitation.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran said the facility demonstrates the Government’s commitment to helping vulnerable children rebuild their lives through care, guidance and rehabilitation.

Once completed, the centre will accommodate up to 24 boys.

The project is being delivered in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Fiji, which matched the Government’s financial contribution towards construction.

The facility is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

Minister Kiran also recognised the contributions of The Salvation Army, Empower Pacific, development partners, faith-based organisations, civil society groups and community leaders for supporting efforts to improve child welfare in Fiji.

The new rehabilitation centre represents another milestone in strengthening Fiji’s child protection framework and expanding services for children in need of care and support.