Sierra Leone’s President Declares National Emergency Over Rampant Kush Abuse
In a bold move to address the growing crisis of drug abuse in Sierra Leone, President Julius Maada Bio has declared a national emergency over the widespread use of kush, a psychoactive blend of addictive substances. The president described the drug as a “death trap” and warned that it posed an “existential crisis” to the country.
Kush, which has been prevalent in Sierra Leone for years, contains a variety of harmful ingredients, including human bones. Security measures have been tightened in cemeteries to prevent addicts from digging up skeletons to use in the drug.
The impact of kush abuse is evident in the country, with groups of young men suffering from swollen limbs and other health issues as a result of their addiction. The Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital has seen a significant increase in admissions related to kush, with a surge of almost 4,000% between 2020 and 2023.
President Bio’s response to the crisis includes the establishment of a National Task Force on Drugs and Substance Abuse, as well as the creation of treatment centers in every district staffed by trained professionals. Additionally, law enforcement agencies have been directed to dismantle the drug supply chain through investigations and arrests.
While some critics have questioned the government’s response to the kush crisis, others, like Dr. Abdul Jalloh of the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital, see the emergency declaration as a crucial step in addressing the epidemic. With 63% of the hospital’s current patients admitted for kush-related issues, the need for action is clear.
As the country grapples with the devastating effects of kush abuse, families like Marie’s, who lost her son to the drug, are calling for more comprehensive measures to combat this scourge. President Bio’s declaration of a national emergency signals a commitment to tackling the issue head-on and providing much-needed support to those affected by addiction.