In a continued effort to address the rising challenge of drug and substance abuse in Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Social Welfare has officially admitted a new cohort of 50 service users—45 boys and 5 girls—into the Peace Mission Training Center (PMTC) in Hastings for rehabilitation.
The symbolic admission ceremony was attended by key stakeholders including Hon. Princess Kadie Daramy, a sitting Member of Parliament and representative of the Social Welfare Committee. Delivering greetings on behalf of Parliament, Hon. Daramy lauded Minister of Social Welfare, Madam Melrose Karminty, for her proactive leadership. She also praised the efforts of social workers, parents, and service users for their shared commitment to recovery and transformation.
Hon. Daramy, who played a role in the center’s inauguration, reiterated the significance of the PMTC in rehabilitating young Sierra Leoneans ensnared by drug addiction. She called for continued prayers and support from families, the government, and international partners to ensure the long-term success of the initiative.
Major Lavalie, representing the Peace Mission Training Center, expressed his appreciation to the Ministry for its bold stance against drug abuse. He assured attendees of the facility’s strong security systems and called on service users to uphold values of discipline, honesty, and cooperation throughout their rehabilitation journey.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Melrose Karminty emphasized the moral and spiritual foundation upon which the center operates. She thanked God for the opportunity to save lives and highlighted the importance of prayer, forgiveness, and personal transformation in the recovery process.
“Today we are not just admitting victims, we are giving hope. With divine guidance and national support, these young people can become the next generation of doctors, lawyers, ministers, or even presidents,” Minister Karminty said. She stressed that rehabilitation is not just about withdrawal, but reintegration with dignity.
The Peace Mission Training Center has become a beacon of hope for many families affected by drug and substance abuse. The Ministry assured the public that it will continue working with partners to expand support for victims, and to promote awareness and prevention strategies nationwide.
Credit: Abu Bakarr Sama
