By Forum staff writer
The Pillar Lead for Rehabilitation and Reintegration at the National Task Force on Drug and Substance Abuse, Mr Ansumana Kanneh, has disclosed that five rehabilitation centres have been established across Sierra Leone within the past two years as part of efforts to address the growing problem of drug and substance abuse in the country.
According to Mr. Kanneh, the rehabilitation centres are located in Hastings, Daru, Bo, Kono, and Makeni. He explained that the facilities were created to support individuals struggling with substance abuse through treatment, counseling, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs aimed at helping them rebuild their lives.
He revealed that approximately 784 people have so far benefited from the rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives implemented by the task force. Statistics provided by the rehabilitation pillar show that 88 percent of the beneficiaries are male, while 12 percent are female.
Mr. Kanneh stated that the increasing number of drug abuse cases across the country remains a serious concern for authorities and communities alike. He stressed that rehabilitation alone cannot fully address the crisis unless families and communities become more actively involved in prevention and guidance.
Speaking on the causes of the growing drug problem, he attributed much of the crisis to family breakdown and weak parental supervision. According to him, some of the cases handled by the task force have revealed disturbing situations in which parents themselves are directly involved in introducing children to drugs or encouraging drug related activities.
He warned that such actions place children at serious risk and contribute to the increasing number of young people becoming victims of addiction and substance abuse. Mr. Kanneh emphasized that children require proper care, discipline, and moral guidance in order to avoid negative influences within society.
He called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility in protecting and monitoring their children, noting that strong family support plays a major role in preventing young people from becoming involved in drugs.
The rehabilitation pillar lead also appealed to communities, schools, religious institutions, and other stakeholders to work together in combating drug abuse through awareness campaigns, counseling, and youth empowerment programs.
Observers say the establishment of rehabilitation centres in different regions marks an important step in addressing substance abuse and supporting recovery efforts nationwide. However, many believe that stronger preventive measures, economic opportunities for young people, and sustained public education campaigns will be necessary to effectively tackle the growing drug crisis in Sierra Leone.
Authorities continue to encourage citizens to support national efforts aimed at protecting young people and building safer communities free from drug abuse.
