Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. To curb the growing rate of substance abuse in the provinces, the Mandu Chiefdom Youth Council (MCYC), a youth-serving organization in Kailahun District, on Saturday, 8th November 2025, launched a community-driven initiative aimed at preventing drug misuse and promoting a healthier, drug-free society.
The launch, held at the NA Court Barry in Mobai, the chiefdom’s headquarters, attracted hundreds of residents under the theme “My Future, My Choice – Say No to Drug Abuse in Mandu Chiefdom.” The program seeks to unite residents, local organizations, healthcare providers, schools, and law enforcement agencies in complementing government efforts to combat the harmful impact of substance abuse across Mandu Chiefdom. The initiative will specifically target potential drug dealers and users in various sections of the chiefdom.
In his opening remarks, the Guest of Honour and Chiefdom Speaker of Mandu Chiefdom, A.B. Kamara, said the fight against drug abuse will help build a morally upright, healthy, and productive community. He described the initiative as “a golden treasure” that requires the collective involvement of all stakeholders. Kamara further urged the Youth Council, the Sierra Leone Police, and the Local Police Partnership Board to establish Anti-Drug Task Force Committees across all sections of the chiefdom to strengthen enforcement and community surveillance.
Delivering the keynote address, Councillor Mamie Lansana of Ward 12, Constituency 005 in Kailahun District, called on women’s groups to take ownership of the campaign and demonstrate commitment toward creating a drug-free society.
Speaking on compliance, safety, and security, the Chairman of the Local Police Partnership Board in Mandu Chiefdom, Borbor Sesay, advised local authorities to implement and enforce community by-laws addressing health and substance abuse issues. He encouraged local police to make evidence-based civil arrests of suspected offenders and hand them over to authorities until the arrival of law enforcement officers.
Highlighting the community’s role in the fight against substance abuse, Gibairu Sandy, Chairman of the Mandu Chiefdom Youth Council, said addressing drug misuse and building long-term resilience require strong partnerships and collective responsibility. “The success of this program depends on collaboration with key community stakeholders to address the specific causes of addiction,” he stated.
Sandy urged residents to unite against drug peddling and to create non-judgmental spaces where affected individuals can share experiences, receive emotional support, and rebuild their lives without stigma. He also appealed to the central government to empower local youth organizations through funding, resource mobilization, and technical support to sustain effective, evidence-based interventions.
The event marked a significant step toward strengthening community participation in the fight against substance abuse in Mandu Chiefdom and promoting a safer, healthier future for young people.
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