Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has declared a national emergency due to the surge in the use of a dangerous synthetic drug called kush, following concerns raised by the public.
Kush, a mix of marijuana, fentanyl, and tramadol, has led to numerous deaths and harmed many users since its emergence in Sierra Leone about four years ago. The exact death toll is unknown.
President Bio highlighted the destructive impact of kush on the country’s youth and announced the formation of a national task force to combat substance abuse. This task force will implement a five-step strategy aimed at creating a drug-free environment, with input from various sectors and oversight from a presidential advisory team.
The affordability of kush has made it appealing to unemployed youth, especially in impoverished communities. The drug’s presence is also felt in neighboring Liberia.
Communities have urged the government to address the issue and support those affected by drug use. Abdul Jalloh, head of Sierra Leone’s only psychiatric hospital, welcomed the government’s decision, considering it a significant step in addressing the drug problem.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
Better