02/07/2024
On the 26th of June 2024, recognised as the International Day Against Drugs and Illicit Trafficking, one of the many dreams of the Late Alhaji Unisa Alim Sesay came to fruition. The National Council for the Prevention of Alcoholism and Drug Dependency (NCPA) was invited to the occasion, a day filled with hopes and aspirations for the future of our youth and young adults.
I, Unisa Alim Sesay (Junior), had the honour of addressing the pressing issue of Kush and its growing impact on our communities.
Kush poses significant dangers due to its high components, such as THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (Cannabidiol), and other cannabinoids. The impact on our communities, especially among young people, is profoundly detrimental. According to a 2023 report by the World Health Organization (WHO), the use of synthetic cannabinoids has surged globally, with an estimated 15% increase in usage among youth aged 15-24 in the past five years. This rise is alarming, as Kush is associated with severe health risks, including acute psychosis, cardiovascular problems, and, in extreme cases, death. Our communities are grappling with the social and economic fallout of this trend; emergency room visits due to synthetic cannabinoid use have skyrocketed, with a reported 40% increase in urban areas over the last three years.
Additionally, law enforcement agencies have noted a correlation between Kush use and a rise in crime rates, particularly violent crimes and property offences, as users often engage in illegal activities to sustain their habits. In Sierra Leone, local health authorities report that over 60% of drug-related hospital admissions among youth are linked to Kush. The NCPA highlights that educational institutions struggle with increased absenteeism and dropout rates, with many young users finding it challenging to maintain their academic commitments. The widespread use of Kush results in severe individual and societal impacts, including increased school dropouts, unemployment, and crime rates, alongside a more significant strain on healthcare systems and economic costs related to healthcare, rehabilitation, and law enforcement.
Our mission at NCPA is to highlight the challenges faced by young people and communities due to the growing crisis of drug dependency. We are committed to a shared vision: to combat the scourge of drugs in our communities through understanding, empathy, rehabilitation, and unwavering support. Our objectives are clear: to raise awareness, rehabilitate those affected, and create opportunities that steer our youth away from the dangers of substance abuse, giving them a chance to reintegrate into society and better themselves through apprenticeships and other skilled jobs.
We look forward to the future, reaching out to more youths and working in alignment with the government's vision of a drug-free society.
Signed,
Unisa Alim Sesay Jnr
Executive Director
National Council for the Prevention of Alcoholism and Drugs Dependency (NCPA)
