Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has proclaimed a national emergency on drug and substance usage, with a particular emphasis on the synthetic drug known as Kush. On Thursday, April 4, 2024, President Bio delivered a televised speech to the nation, emphasizing the serious threat that drug consumption, particularly Kush, poses to the country’s youth and the fabric of Sierra Leone society.

President Bio underscored the devastation that drug addiction has on families and communities, emphasizing the importance of taking immediate action to combat the growing issue.

As part of the national emergency declaration, President Bio announced the formation of the National Task Force on Drugs and Substance Abuse (NaTFDSA), which will include various government agencies, security forces, community organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and religious groups.

The Task Force will lead a comprehensive plan to combat drug abuse, including prevention, treatment, law enforcement, social services support, and community participation.

President Bio emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to combat the drug crisis, encouraging residents to take an active role in the fight against drug abuse. He underlined the need for education and rehabilitation to empower young people to make healthy decisions and reject the allure of drugs.

The president also committed to stepping up law enforcement measures to break up drug trafficking networks and hold culprits accountable. He promised that the administration would prioritize drug-related cases in the judiciary to ensure prompt and decisive punishment against criminals.

President Bio urged all Sierra Leoneans to stand united in the fight against drug misuse, confirming the country’s commitment to creating a drug-free future for future generations. He offered his sympathies to families who had lost loved ones to drug addiction and promised to support them in their search for justice and healing.

In conclusion, President Bio sought divine guidance and blessings for Sierra Leone in its efforts to eradicate drug misuse and protect its people and nation.

The declaration of a national emergency on drug abuse is a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s attempts to combat the growing threat of substance abuse and its societal consequences.