Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Caritas Freetown, working with the Tzu Chi Foundation, Healey International Relief Foundation, and the Lanyi Foundation, on December 18 held an interfaith dialogue and rice distribution at Sheikh Tais Academy Junior School in Kissy.
The programme brought together religious leaders, government officials, and community members to discuss social issues affecting communities, particularly drug abuse among young people, and to support families in need.
Chaired by Father Alphonso A. Carew, the discussion focused largely on the spread of the drug commonly known as “kush” and its impact on youth. Speakers from different faith backgrounds raised concerns about addiction, unemployment, and the lack of opportunities for young people.
Rev. Fr. Joseph T. Kamanda said economic hardship has contributed to substance abuse and called for skills training and productive engagement for youths. Pastor William Koroma encouraged young people to turn away from drugs and seek support through faith and community. Sheikh Fomba Abubakar Swaray stressed the responsibility of families and communities to guide young people and protect them from harmful influences.
Representatives of the Buddhist community, Mohamed Pabai and Bodhisattva Ren, spoke on compassion and practical action as ways to help young people recover. Theophilus Sahr Gbenda of the Rastafari community and Saffia Sylvanus Brima also warned about the dangers of drug use and urged stronger youth engagement.
John Conteh of the Ministry of Social Welfare said the initiative aligns with government efforts to promote religious tolerance and social support. He noted that community-based interventions remain important as the country faces economic challenges.
In a goodwill message, Margaret Bassie, speaking for the Tzu Chi Foundation, said compassion and unity are values shared across religions. Father Joseph Bangura of Caritas Freetown, delivering the keynote address, thanked the partner organizations for supporting the initiative.
After the dialogue, aid was distributed to selected beneficiaries, with each receiving three bags of rice.
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