Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a significant step towards combating drug abuse, the Ministry of Social Welfare, in partnership with the National Taskforce on Drug & Substance Abuse, has successfully discharged 100 former Kush users following a seven-week rehabilitation program.
The ceremony took place at the Peace Mission Training Center (PMTC) in Hastings under the theme, “Let Us Kick Kush Out of Sierra Leone” (“Leh wi kick Kush kɔmot na Salone”).
In his opening remarks, Hon. Robin Farlla from the Office of the Chief Minister commended the Ministry of Social Welfare, led by Hon. Minister Melrose Karminty, for their steadfast dedication to eradicating drug abuse. He also thanked the Commander of PMTC for hosting the program, which provided vital care and rehabilitation for the former users, now called “Ambassadors.”
Madam Theresa, representing the Ministry of Health, acknowledged the ongoing challenges in providing treatment for drug users.
She urged for further collaboration between her Ministry and the Ministry of Social Welfare to strengthen the healthcare system’s response to drug-related issues.
Andrew Jay Kaikai, a representative from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, highlighted the urgent need to address the surge of illicit drugs, especially Kush, into Sierra Leone.
He outlined several measures the Government is implementing to combat drug trafficking and abuse, stressing that a collective national effort is essential in the fight against drug addiction.
Senior Officer Desmond Bello, representing the Ministry of Defense, assured the public of the military’s unwavering support in the Government’s mission to curb drug distribution and consumption. He pledged continued security assistance to ensure law and order throughout the campaign.
Professor Philip Kanu from Milton Margai Technical University praised the families of the rehabilitated individuals for their unwavering support during the rehabilitation process.
He encouraged the new Ambassadors to stay committed to their recovery and offered free educational opportunities at the university for those interested in furthering their studies.
In a keynote address delivered on behalf of Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Hon. Minister Melrose Karminty expressed her deep appreciation to all stakeholders for their involvement in the program.
She urged the families of the rehabilitated individuals to provide ongoing support and reminded the new Ambassadors of the importance of maintaining their drug-free lifestyle.
Minister Karminty concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to reintegrating the rehabilitated individuals into their communities and supporting their future endeavors.
“These young people are the leaders of tomorrow,” she stated, “and it is our duty to guide them as they embark on this new chapter.”
The event marked a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s battle against drug abuse, with the successful rehabilitation of these individuals symbolizing a beacon of hope for a drug-free future in the country.
