By: Sulaiman Aruna Sesay

Kush, also known as cannabis or marijuana, has become a rising problem among Sierra Leonean youths. Over the years, many youths have fallen into the ocean of Kush as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety. This drug is not only illegal but could have serious health implications on its users, especially on teenagers.The availability of ‘Kush’ in Sierra Leone is a great concern. It’s a growing issue within the country, and many young people use Kush as a cheap alternative to alcohol. ‘Kush’ is also relatively easy to manufacture in comparison to other drugs that require more sophisticated materials.

One reason for this situation is the lack of education among young Sierra Leoneans. Many youths are not aware of the negative effects of Kush on the body and its addictive nature. Even when they are informed about the potential risks and consequences of using Kush, the youth are reluctant to take heed because of peer pressure or the feeling of invincibility associated with being young.

Another reason is the impact of poverty, which is widespread in Sierra Leone. Living in poverty results in a lack of opportunities for young people. As a result, the youth often turn to Kush as a means of coping with the stress and disappointment associated with their poor living conditions. The government need to step up and create more jobs for the youth.

There is the issue of weak enforcement of drug laws in Sierra Leone. Security agencies rarely act in combating the illegal trade of drugs, including Kush, and as such, the activity goes uncontrolled, thereby endangering the health and lives of young people. The danger of a significant number of young people in Sierra Leone indulging in Kush cannot be overemphasized. Kush users could suffer from a variety of health problems such as addiction, respiratory problems, anxiety, and depression. The implications of drug addiction extend beyond just physical health and into psychological health, social life, and overall well-being.

The youth in Sierra Leone has fallen into the dark hole of Kush, and urgent measures are required to address this growing problem. The government should invest in education campaigns that emphasize the dangers of using Kush. Security agencies should also play their role in enforcing drug laws to curb the illegal trade of drugs. If unchecked, the problem could lead to a bleak future for the young generation, demoralizing their potential and aspirations for greatness.