Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has taken decisive action in response to the growing crisis of substance abuse in the country. President Bio declared a national emergency on substance abuse following concerns over the proliferation of a dangerous synthetic drug known as kush.
The drug, a potent mix of marijuana, fentanyl, and tramadol, has led to numerous deaths and severe psychiatric issues among users since its emergence in Sierra Leone approximately four years ago.
President Bio highlighted the devastating impact of kush on the country’s youth and emphasized the urgent need for intervention.
In his late-night address on Thursday, President Bio announced the establishment of a national task force on substance abuse, comprising representatives from all sectors of society. This task force will be supervised by a presidential advisory team and will implement a comprehensive five-step strategy aimed at achieving a drug-free future.
Kush’s affordability has made it easily accessible to vulnerable and unemployed youth, with approximately a quarter of Sierra Leone’s population living in poverty. The drug’s presence has also been noted in neighboring Liberia.
