By: Christopher Ahmed Kamara
Sierra Leone stands at a critical crossroads. The nation, still recovering from years of civil conflict and economic instability, now faces a new and insidious threat: drug abuse among its youth and is at an alarming surge. Substances such as Kush and Tramadol have infiltrated communities and are increasingly used by teenagers and young adults.
In the community where I live and where I go to do my Business, I have witnessed first-hand of how these drugs are destroying our young people, and the consequences of this epidemic are dire, affecting not only the health and well-being of individuals but also the social fabric and future of our Nation.
This growing problem of drug abuse among Sierra Leonean youth cannot be ignored any longer. Therefore, a comprehensive survey on drug abuse among Sierra Leonean youth is urgently needed in order to fully understand the scope of the problem and to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment and ultimately reclaim our youth from the clutches of addiction. This survey should involve input from a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, law enforcement agencies, healthcare professionals, and community leaders.
This publication highlights the urgent need for a thorough survey to understand the scope of the problem, inform policy decisions, and implement effective interventions to save our youth from the clutches of addiction.
The Current State of Drug Abuse
Despite the government’s acknowledgment of the issue, evidenced by the recent town hall meeting held at the Freetown Conference Centre in April, 2024, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Stakeholders, including the Chief Justice, Inspector General of Police, Members of Parliament, Heads of the Drug Law enforcement Agency, Paramount Chiefs, Religious Leaders and concerned citizens, voiced their concerns about the rampant drug abuse, the Vice President His Excellency Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh Pledged his Leadership of the National task force against the Kush epidemic in that meeting, yet little has changed.
The streets remain flooded with Kush and Tramadol drugs, the police raids have gone quiet and the youth continue to fall victim to addiction.
This rising trend not only jeopardizes their health and well-being but also leads them into a cycle of crime and poverty. With limited access to mental health resources and support systems, many youths find themselves trapped, lacking the tools to break free.
The lack of a comprehensive survey means that we are operating in the dark, without a clear understanding of the extent of the problem or the demographics most affected.
The Need for a Comprehensive Survey
- Driven Insights:
A comprehensive survey will provide critical data on the prevalence of drug abuse among Sierra Leonean youth. Understanding the demographics, types and the number of times these substances are used, and patterns of abuse are essential for developing targeted interventions.
- Raise Awareness:
The act of conducting a survey itself raises public awareness of the issue, encouraging communities to engage in discussions about drug abuse and its consequences. This can lead to increased support for initiatives aimed at tackling drug trafficking and usage.
- Inform Policy and Action Plans:
The insights gained from surveys can help policymakers design better programs and allocate resources more efficiently. Evidence-based decisions are crucial for implementing effective prevention and treatment initiatives.
- Understand the Scope:
A comprehensive survey will shed light on the prevalence and patterns of drug use among the youth. By collecting data on age, socio-economic status, and the contexts in which drug abuse occurs, stakeholders can develop targeted interventions.
- Identify Risk Factors:
Surveys can help identify the underlying factors contributing to drug abuse in Sierra Leone. Is it poverty, lack of education, or the influence of peers?
Understanding these factors will enable a more effective response.
Call to action for the government and stakeholders
We call upon the Government of Sierra Leone, alongside International partners, Non-Governmental Organizations, and Community Stakeholders, to take the following actions:
- Conduct Comprehensive Surveys:
Launch national surveys focused on drug abuse that target young people, collecting data on usage patterns and behaviors. Involve universities and research institutions to ensure the credibility and accuracy of the findings.
- Strengthen Counter-Narcotics Efforts:
Enhance law enforcement efforts to curb the trafficking of drugs like Kush and Tramadol. Stringent measures must be put in place to dismantle the networks facilitating drug distribution in communities.
- Promote Education and Awareness Campaigns:
Implement educational programs that inform young people about the dangers of drug use. Empower communities with knowledge and resources to combat stigma and support those struggling with addiction.
- Invest in Rehabilitation Services:
Establish and expand accessible rehabilitation services for young people affected by drug abuse. Support systems must be in place to help them reintegrate into society.
Conclusion
The youth of Sierra Leone are its future, yet the rise in drug abuse threatens their potential and well-being. We call on the government of Sierra Leone to prioritize the issue of drug abuse among youth and to allocate the necessary resources to conduct a comprehensive survey on this issue. Only by understanding the full extent of the problem can we develop effective strategies to address it and save our young people from the devastating effects of drug addiction.
A proactive approach involving comprehensive surveys and collective action to combat drug trafficking is essential to halt this dangerous trend. Together, we can create a healthier and a brighter future for our young people, ensuring that they are equipped to contribute positively to society rather than fall victim to the perils of addiction.
Let us act now before we lose more precious lives to the clutches of drug abuse.
