The Social Work Department of Milton Margai Technical University, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), commemorated the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on the theme: “Breaking the Chain: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All” at the Funkia Community Center in Goderich, Freetown.

The event, held on Wednesday, 25th June 2025, drew students, community leaders, government officials, and youth from across the area, all united in the fight against drug abuse particularly the growing Kush epidemic.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Conteh of Milton Margai Technical University highlighted the long-term impact of Sierra Leone’s civil war on youth empowerment and development. “The war left behind a lost generation,” he said. “Many young people missed out on education and opportunities. Up to 60% of our population is youth, and they must be seen and treated as the leaders of today, not tomorrow.

Dr. Conteh stressed the urgent need for government policies that prioritize youth welfare and called for collaboration between ministries and agencies to address drug abuse. “These young people still have potentials,” he added. “Their lives can be changed, and we must act now to prevent the widening gap.”

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Andrew Jaiah Kaikai, Executive Director of the NDLEA, reflected on the global importance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse, first declared by the United Nations General Assembly on 7th December 1987. “This day is a reminder that many people are silently suffering from the impact of drug use,” he said. “We must bring their stories to the forefront and provide support, not stigma.”

Chief Kaikai praised the youth of Funkia Community for their active involvement and expressed gratitude to Milton Margai University for its commitment to awareness and advocacy. He commended President Julius Maada Bio for his recent efforts, particularly the declaration of a national Public Health Emergency on Drug Abuse on 4th April 2025.

According to Chief Kaikai, the president has instructed that drug users should be treated with compassion and medical care, rather than being criminalized. “The focus should be on arresting traffickers and suppliers not the victims,” he emphasized.

He revealed that the government, through a national taskforce led by Professor Foday Sam, has already opened a rehabilitation centre in Hastings, with four successful treatment batches. The rehabilitated individuals, now referred to as “Champions,” are helping spread awareness and reintegrating into society. A new rehabilitation centre has also been established in Bo, with further expansion plans underway.

Chief Kaikai noted that with strong community partnerships, especially youth involvement, the fight against Kush and other harmful substances can be won. “We must break the chain,” he said. “Those who haven’t started using drugs must be encouraged to stay away, and those currently affected must receive help to stop.”

He further announced plans to establish community drug advocacy groups that will work closely with local leaders to identify and expose drug suppliers. “They will be arrested and brought to justice,” he warned.