President Bio’s National Address on Kush

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone declared a national emergency on drug and substance abuse, particularly focusing on the synthetic drug known as Kush.

In a televised address to the nation on Thursday, April 4, 2024, President Bio highlighted the grave threat posed by drug abuse, particularly Kush, to the nation’s youth and the fabric of Sierra Leonean society.

He emphasized the devastating impact of drug addiction on families and communities, stressing that urgent action is required to address the escalating crisis.

As part of the national emergency declaration, President Bio announced the establishment of a National Task Force on Drugs and Substance Abuse (NaTFDSA), comprising various government agencies, security forces, community organizations, NGOs, and religious groups. The task force will spearhead a comprehensive strategy aimed at combating drug abuse through prevention, treatment, law enforcement, social services support, and community engagement.

President Bio underscored the need for collective efforts to tackle the drug epidemic, urging citizens to actively participate in the fight against drug abuse. He emphasized the importance of education and rehabilitation in empowering young people to make healthy choices and resist the lure of drugs.

The president also pledged to intensify law enforcement efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and hold perpetrators accountable. He assured that the government would prioritize drug-related cases in the judiciary to ensure swift and decisive action against offenders.

President Bio called on all Sierra Leoneans to unite in solidarity against drug abuse, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to building a drug-free future for generations to come. He expressed condolences to families who have lost loved ones to drug addiction and vowed to support them in their quest for justice and healing.

In closing, President Bio invoked divine guidance and blessings upon Sierra Leone in its endeavor to combat drug abuse and safeguard its people and nation.