The Ministry of Social Welfare, in collaboration with the National Taskforce on Drug and Substance Abuse, has successfully discharged 100 former users of Kush after a seven-week rehabilitation program at the Peace Mission Training Center (PMTC) in Hastings. The event was held under the theme, “Let Us Kick Kush Out of Sierra Leone” (“Leh wi kick Kush k?mot na Salone”), signifying a national commitment to eradicating drug abuse, particularly the widespread use of Kush.
In his opening remarks, Honorable Robin Farlla from the Office of the Chief Minister commended the Ministry of Social Welfare, led by Hon. Minister Melrose Karminty, for their relentless efforts in the fight against drug abuse. He also expressed gratitude to the Commander of the Peace Mission Training Center for hosting the rehabilitation program, which has provided much-needed care and support for the former drug users, now called “Ambassadors.”
Madam Theresa, a representative from the Ministry of Health, acknowledged the challenges faced b
y her Ministry in collaborating with the Ministry of Social Welfare to provide comprehensive treatment for drug users. She called for continued efforts to strengthen the healthcare system’s capacity to manage drug-related cases.
Andrew Jay Kaikai from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency emphasised the urgency of tackling the influx of illicit drugs, particularly Kush, into the country. He outlined measures that the Government is putting in place to curb drug trafficking and abuse, stressing that the fight against drug abuse requires a collective national effort.
Representing the Ministry of Defense, Senior Officer Desmond Bello affirmed that security forces are fully committed to supporting the Government in its mission to combat the distribution and consumption of drugs. He assured the public that the Ministry would continue to provide security support to uphold law and order in the ongoing campaign.
Professor Philip Kanu, from Milton Margai Technical University,
commended the families of the rehabi
litated individuals for their courage and dedication throughout the rehabilitation process. He encouraged the new Ambassadors to stay the course. He promised free educational support for those who wish to further their studies in any field of their choice at Milton Margai University.
The keynote address, initially slated for Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, was delivered by Hon. Minister Melrose Karminty. In her speech, she expressed deep appreciation to all the representatives for their support and encouraged the families of the rehabilitated individuals to continue providing positive reinforcement. Minister Karminty reminded the new Ambassadors of the importance of not reverting to their past habits and urged them to embrace their new, drug-free lives.
In her concluding remarks, Hon. Minister Karminty reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to reintegrating the rehabilitated individuals into their communities and supporting them in rebuilding their lives. “These young people are the leaders of tom
orrow, and we must guide them as they embark on this new chapter,” she stated.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the nation’s fight against drug abuse, with the discharged individuals symbolising hope for a brighter, drug-free future for Sierra Leone.
Source: Sierra Leone News Agency