By Fatmata Grace Okekearu
In a determined effort to tackle the escalating issue of drug and substance abuse, the National Task Force on Drug and Substance Abuse has on June 6,2024 launched an awareness campaign yesterday, specifically targeting the substance known as Kush. The event, held at the Bo City Council Chamber, marked the beginning of a decentralized approach to combatting this pressing problem in the Southern Province.
The primary goals of the campaign include informing the public about government efforts to combat Kush, encouraging local councils to take active roles in the fight against drug abuse, and mobilizing collective community action to address the issue.
His Worship Kobba Musa, the Mayor of Bo City Council, chaired the launch event, welcoming attendees, including the Minister and Deputy Minister of Local Government. In his opening remarks, Mayor Musa emphasized the critical need to decentralize the fight against Kush, urging youths to avoid the substance and highlighting their importance as future leaders. He also stressed the importance of targeting drug dealers to disrupt the distribution network, commending the police force’s ongoing efforts in this battle.
The District Medical Officer (D.M.O.) provided a detailed analysis of Kush’s harmful effects, explaining how it adversely impacts the brain and body, leading to loss of focus, internal injuries, behavioral changes, and other serious health issues. He outlined ongoing district initiatives to curb drug abuse, such as awareness campaigns, community engagement, and radio programs.
Kossoh Hindowa, Chairman of Bo District Council, presented research findings on the socioeconomic impact of Kush. He noted that addiction to the substance significantly reduces youth productivity and poses challenges to the agricultural sector. Hindowa called for a united front to effectively combat the menace.
Ambassador Tamba Lamina, Minister of Local Government, officially launched the campaign, urging youths to avoid Kush and focus on productive activities. Madam Isata Kallon, Executive Director of PIRSUD-SL, which is responsible for rehabilitating Kush addicts, appealed for increased financial and medical support to aid their growing number of beneficiaries.
The event concluded with Deputy Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr. Alfred Jamiru, unveiling the campaign slogan, AR SABI D TRU BUT KUSH WAE YU, reinforcing the message to steer clear of the deadly substance.
