Substance abuse has long been a problem for impoverished Sierra Leone. Throughout the 1990s, a civil war gained notoriety for the role played by drug-fueled teenagers, who committed atrocities.
Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. One of the key impacts of illicit drug use on society is the negative health consequences experienced by its members. Drug use also puts a heavy financial burden on individuals, families, and society.
To address some of these problems, Freetown Terminal Limited, a subsidiary of Bollore Transport and Logistics, on Saturday, March 26, 2022, held a campaign against drug and alcohol abuse at the Moa Wharf and Seaside communities in Freetown.
The campaign brought together victims of drugs abuse, campaigners, and hundreds of community stakeholders. The activity was held as part of the company’s corporate responsibility.
The Public Relation Officer of Bollore, Gassimu S. Fofana, said the sensitization came as a result of earlier engagement with Moa Wharf and Seaside Communities.
He said that it is the responsibility of the company to educate the community about the harmful effects of drug/alcohol abuse.
Isatu Jalloh, Chairlady of the Moa Wharf Community, said that drug/alcohol abuse is a serious problem in their communities. She said that youths and children who are abusing substances are becoming lawless and disrespectful and are involved in crimes.
She said that drug abuse is destroying the abilities of youths.
She called on the relevant authorities to take the necessary actions to curtail the spread of harmful substances to save the future of communities.
Hon.HonourableAlieu Ibrahim Kamara aka KOYO, aMember of Parliament representing constituency 112 which covers Moa Wharf and Seaside communities, applauded Bollore for supporting a campaign on drug and alcohol abuse.
“Thanks to Bollore for supporting the sensitization. This is the type of company that deserves community support,” he said.
He said that his constituency is at the center of drug and alcohol abuse because it is located at the heart of the city, Freetown.
He urged members of his constituency not to allow poverty and stress to push them to take drugs and alcohol.
Aiah Nabieu Mokuwah, executive director for the Institute of Drug and Human Security, spoke extensively on licit and illicit drugs, counter and prescription drugs, drug and alcohol abuse, and addiction.
He said that drug and alcohol affect one’s income, health, and wellbeing, distort body function and kills one’s dream.
“Addiction is the most dangerous side of the drug and alcohol abuse,” he said.
Mokuwah maintained that advocacy is the most critical component in the fight against drug/alcohols abuse.
“Drug and alcohol abuse is a big problem in our communities. Drug and alcohol use is a health problem, not a criminal problem,” he maintained. “The substance and alcohol abuse has a lot of effect on victims’ productive.”
The Public Relations Officer of the National Drug Enforcement Agency, Ibrahim Kargbo said that drug abuse greatly affects the health and production of the victims. He said that his Agency provides psychosocial support to victims of drug and alcohol abuse. He admonished youths to desist from substance abuse.
Testimonies of victims of substance abuse climaxed the campaign.
SIERRA LEONE NEWS 