By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a recent interview on AYV past Sunday, Dr. Victor Moinina, a prominent political and social commentator, expressed his concerns over the growing perception of Sierra Leone in the international community. He highlighted that the events of recent months have caused the country to be viewed as “drug-friendly” on the global stage, a situation he believes could have serious implications for Sierra Leone’s reputation.
Dr. Moinina emphasized that when issues affect the country, they do not only impact the government but also have far-reaching consequences for the people of Sierra Leone. His statement came in the wake of rising concerns about the country’s involvement in drug-related activities, which have gained increased attention from international bodies and foreign media outlets.
The political commentator called on the Sierra Leone government to take urgent and concerted action to address the issue, stressing that it is crucial for the government to work closely with development partners in order to restore the country’s standing in the global arena. According to Dr. Moinina, such a collaborative effort is essential to reversing the negative image that has started to take hold.
“The reputation of our nation is at risk,” Dr. Moinina said, adding that international stakeholders are beginning to perceive Sierra Leone as a hub for drug-related activities. This, he pointed out, could not only affect the country’s international relations but also hinder its development prospects, particularly in areas like trade, investment, and tourism.
The drug issue, he noted, has the potential to undermine the government’s efforts to build a positive image for the country and attract much-needed foreign investment. Dr. Moinina stressed that addressing such a challenge head-on requires a multi-faceted approach, including strengthening law enforcement, improving public awareness, and creating more economic opportunities for the youth, who may otherwise turn to illicit activities out of desperation.
Furthermore, Dr. Moinina reiterated the need for Sierra Leone to engage international organisations and development partners to effectively combat the drug trade and rehabilitate the country’s image. He expressed hope that with the right strategies and partnerships, Sierra Leone could rebuild its reputation and emerge as a prosperous nation once again.
In conclusion, Dr. Moinina’s remarks served as a call to action for the Sierra Leone government to take swift and effective steps to address the rising drug concerns, with the aim of protecting the country’s global standing and ensuring a brighter future for its citizens.
