By Sahid Bangura

Sierra Leone has been facing a high prevalence of drug use among its citizens. The abuse of drugs both legal and illegal has become a worldwide issue causing immense harm to individuals and society as a whole. The use of harmful drugs such as Tramadol; Kush, Marijuana, Cocaine to name but few, has caused countless deaths and has led to significant burden on healthcare system in Sierra Leone.

The government’s efforts to reduce drug use in Sierra Leone, illicit drug trafficking continues to thrive across its borders. Smugglers bring in a variety of illicit drugs, including Tramadol; Kush, Marijuana, and Cocaine into the country, which are then sold on streets creating a major health and social problem.  The continued smuggling has attracted a number of drug users and traffickers, contributing to the growth of the drug industry.

The government involvement’s involvement in tackling drug abuse in Sierra Leone is crucial. A significant step is to increase the effectiveness of drug addiction treatment and prevention programs. The government can set up drug addict rehabilitation centres, where the drug users will be given medical care, counselling, and social support to ensure they live a drug-free lifestyle. The government should also devise new programs to educate the youth and the older generation on the dangers of drug abuse. This can be done through formal institutions, as well as community-based programs.Another approach is for the government to collaborate with the law enforcement agencies, such as the Police and Sierra Leone Revenue Authority. They should establish enhanced drug detection measures to impede drug smuggling and the supply of illegal drugs within the nation. One decision may be to enhance border control, regularly patrolling the borders and investigating suspected drug smugglers. The authorities should then launch a publicity campaign aimed at reducing the demand and addiction levels for forbidden materials.

Drug abuse in Sierra Leone should be tackled with urgency. The government should take responsibility for addressing drug trafficking in the nation by increasing the effectiveness of drug addiction treatment, prevention programs, and implementing laws to deter smugglers. Collaborating with the security agencies is also essential to secure the country’s borders and stop the drug supply within the country. The government should not hesitate to seek international support in combating the illicit drug industry. It will take government commitment, funding, and concerted effort to stop the use of harmful drugs in Sierra Leone, but it will ultimately lead to safer and more prosperous nation for its people.