Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, has declared drug abuse a national emergency, focusing particularly on the synthetic drug known as kush, which has gained popularity among young people, especially in urban areas.
In his address to the nation on Thursday, President Bio emphasized the grave impact of kush, a blend of addictive substances with effects akin to cannabis and tramadol, on communities across the country.
He underscored the urgent need to address the proliferation of drug trafficking networks and curb the accessibility of kush, also referred to as K2, which serves as an escape for unemployed youth grappling with poverty and life traumas.
President Bio’s government has taken proactive steps, including the establishment of a rehabilitation center for drug abuse victims and the formation of a ministerial task force, to combat this pressing issue.
Health experts have highlighted the severe consequences of kush consumption, warning of permanent brain damage and heightened suicidal tendencies.
Sierra Leone’s neighboring countries, Guinea and Liberia, are also grappling with the surge in kush consumption. President Joseph Boakai of Liberia, in his state of the nation address in January, similarly declared drug abuse a public health emergency and initiated measures to address this critical challenge.