By: Saidu Jalloh
In a heartfelt ceremony held on July 25, 2025, the Ministry of Social Welfare officially discharged the sixth group of individuals who successfully completed rehabilitation for substance abuse at the Presidential Medical Treatment Centre (PMTC) Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Hastings. This milestone marks a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s national fight against the rising abuse of synthetic drugs, particularly the widely misused substance known as “Kush.”
The rehabilitated group, primarily composed of youth, underwent a structured and holistic rehabilitation programme aimed at addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction. With the support of various government institutions, these individuals are now prepared to rejoin their families and communities.
A representative from the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education announced plans to reintegrate rehabilitated youth into the formal education system. To support their return to school, beneficiaries received educational starter kits including school uniforms, backpacks, and essential learning materials to ease the transition and promote continuity in their academic journey.
Dr. Carol Labor, Presidential Advisor on Mental Health, stressed that rehabilitation is only the first phase in a long-term recovery journey. She highlighted the need for continuous mental health care, personal resilience, and strong community-based support systems to help former drug users stay on the path to healing.
Also addressing the audience, Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs, Patrick M. Gibrilla, emphasized the importance of sustainable empowerment programmes. He called on stakeholders to invest in skills training, vocational education, and entrepreneurship opportunities, which he described as critical tools for restoring dignity, independence, and a sense of purpose among the recovering youth.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Social Welfare, Mrs. Melrose Karminty, commended the resilience and courage of the survivors.
“The intention of the devil was to destroy our youthful population through Kush,” she declared. “But we have reclaimed their lives.”
She called on families to welcome their children back with love, patience, and understanding, and encouraged the young survivors to become advocates for change and positive role models in their communities.
The ceremony highlighted the Ministry’s comprehensive approach not just focused on rehabilitation, but also on full reintegration through education, employment, and emotional support. All speakers echoed a unified message: while the battle against drug abuse is ongoing, collective action, compassion, and resilience are the keys to winning it.
As the sixth group of survivors returns to their communities, their journey symbolizes not only individual redemption but also national resolve a testament to Sierra Leone’s commitment to protecting and empowering its youth.