Sierra Leone Declares National Emergency Over Kush Drug Epidemic
Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has declared a national emergency over the “Kush” drug epidemic that poses an “existential threat” to the West African nation.
National Task Force on Drugs and Substance Abuse
President Bio emphasized the need for a collective effort in the fight against Kush and announced the establishment of a national task force on drugs and substance abuse. The task force will focus on combating the rising kush crisis through awareness campaigns, treatment programs, and crackdowns on the drug’s sale.
Concerns and Impact
The scale of the Kush threat is compared to the Ebola epidemic, with President Bio warning that its spread could hinder Sierra Leone’s goal of becoming a middle-income country by 2039.
Challenges and Addict Behavior
A report highlighted that many young individuals in Sierra Leone are addicted to Kush, a synthetic cannabinoid mixed with harmful additives. Shockingly, some addicts are resorting to digging up human bones to consume the drug.
Regional Impact
The Kush crisis is not limited to Sierra Leone, as neighboring countries like Liberia and Guinea are also experiencing an increase in its usage, posing challenges to the entire region.
