Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Continuing its efforts to combat the rising tide of substance abuse among young people, the Ministry of Social Welfare has admitted a second cohort of 50 drug-affected individuals into the Gonduma Barracks Rehabilitation Centre in Bo.
The initiative marks another milestone in the government’s nationwide campaign to rescue vulnerable youths from addiction to substances such as kush and tramadol.
During the official admission ceremony, Minister of Social Welfare Melrose Karmintry expressed deep concern over the increasing involvement of women in the sale and distribution of illicit drugs. She described the trend as a dangerous development that threatens the future of Sierra Leone’s youth.
“No woman caught selling these harmful drugs will be released from police custody. They will be jailed for this wrongful act. Kush and tramadol selling is not the only business to do there are other legitimate ways to earn a living,” Minister Karmintry warned.
She commended parents who voluntarily contacted the Ministry to seek help for their children, describing their actions as a crucial step toward restoring lives and building responsible citizens.
Colonel Jacob Johnson, Chief of Staff at Gonduma Barracks, assured the public that the admitted youths would receive comprehensive care, including counseling and structured rehabilitation services. He encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace discipline and take full advantage of the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
The District Medical Officer of the Bo District Health Management Team (DHMT), Dr. Amara Stevens Ngegbai, also addressed the ceremony, issuing a stern warning about the dangers associated with kush. He stressed that the drug poses severe mental health risks and can lead to sudden death in extreme cases.
“Kush is extremely harmful. It can kill quickly and leaves lasting damage to mental health,” Dr. Ngegbai cautioned.
The admission of this second batch reinforces Sierra Leone’s broader strategy to curb drug addiction, protect vulnerable youths, and strengthen community well-being.
As the government intensifies its efforts, the Gonduma Rehabilitation Centre continues to offer hope for families seeking recovery and renewal.
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