By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Jabbie Bio, has urged the United Council of Imams to take a frontline role in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse nationwide. She made this appeal on Monday, 24 November 2025, during an engagement with Imams from the southeastern region.
Speaking under the theme “Faith in Action: United Against Drug Trafficking and Abuse,” Dr. Bio encouraged religious leaders to use their influence and spiritual platforms to raise awareness about the devastating impact of drugs particularly the dangerous synthetic substance known locally as kush on young people.
“As Imams, you have a wide and respected audience. You can use your pulpits to communicate the dangers associated with drug use and the harm it poses to our communities,” the First Lady said. She emphasized the need for collective action and underscored that breaking drug supply chains is crucial to winning the national fight against substance abuse.
Dr. Bio highlighted President Julius Maada Bio’s strong political will to intensify efforts against drug abuse and reiterated the government’s commitment to taking decisive action against anyone involved in importing harmful substances into Sierra Leone.
Addressing the long-term consequences of drug proliferation, the First Lady warned that posterity will judge those who destroy the future of the nation’s youth. She appealed to the Imams to extend the anti-drug campaign to all communities, ensuring the message reaches even the most remote areas.
The engagement concluded with the United Council of Imams honouring Dr. Fatima Jabbie Bio with a ceremonial decoration at the Bo Coronation Field, in recognition of her advocacy and ongoing support for national development initiatives.