Villagers in the District of Vuda, aged 45 years old and below, will observe a ban on smoking, alcohol and kava consumption for the next six months.

The ban starts on June 1 and ends on December 31. It will be observed by villages in the district which are Viseisei, Lauwaki, Lomolomo, Abaca, Wayasewa and Namara in Yasawa.

This is to address non-communicable diseases which has become a prevalent issue in the country.

Viseisei village headman Anare Tuidraki, assistant headman Eloni Tuisabeto, said the ban was a directive from the Turaga Na Tui Vuda Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia.

“Since times are changing, new attitudes are emerging in the Vanua O Vuda that are hindering attempts to progress,” he said.

“This ban is directly from the Turaga Na Tui Vuda and the purpose is for our youths to change and stop drinking alcohol, kava and smoking excessively.

“This is the second time for this to be done.

“The first was done in 2007. It was for a year.

“We have seen in the past months the excessive use of certain things that aren’t supposed to be used in the Vanua O Vuda.”

Divisional Superintendent for the Vuda Methodist Circuit Reverend Manasa Saraqia said the church would support the District of Vuda with the ban.

It includes a sports day for the villagers on Saturdays followed by a church service.

He said those covered under the ban would also do chain prayers from at their respective churches.

“They are not allowed to smoke, consume alcohol, kava and other substances so there needs to be something to keep them preoccupied which is where the church comes in.”

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The ban covers men and women aged 45 years and below. It starts on June 1 and ends on December 31.