Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh on Friday presided over the discharge of rehabilitated former drug users at the Peace Mission Training Centre (PMTC) in Hastings, marking a step in the government’s efforts to tackle substance abuse through rehabilitation and reintegration.
Speaking on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, Sengeh said the programme aligned with the government’s “Big Five Game Changer” agenda, particularly its focus on human capital development as a foundation for national growth and effective service delivery.
Sengeh stressed that drug addiction should be addressed through support rather than stigma, urging communities to help rehabilitated individuals reintegrate through mentorship, employment opportunities and guidance. He highlighted government actions to curb substance abuse, including a ban on the importation of the painkiller tramadol and coordination with the ministries of justice, health and internal affairs to strengthen laws protecting public safety.
A representative of the beneficiaries, Alie Tahimu Kamara, thanked the government and staff of the rehabilitation centre, describing the completion of the programme as life-changing amid the loss of many peers to drug abuse.
Colonel Abdul Baba Keita, representing the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, praised the establishment of the rehabilitation facility and underscored the importance of family and community support in sustaining recovery. He commended the discharged participants for their discipline and cooperation, saying their progress could encourage others to seek help.
Social Welfare Minister Melrose Karminty reaffirmed the government’s commitment to social protection and reintegration, describing rehabilitation as essential to building a healthy and productive workforce.
The ceremony underscored Sierra Leone’s approach to addressing drug abuse through rehabilitation, social support and reintegration as part of broader efforts to strengthen community resilience and long-term development, officials said.
By Allan Kamara
