Minister Melrose Karminty Leads Bold to Admit 40 Affected Individual to Daru Barack Rehabilitation Center.
By Fomba M. Sheriff.
The fight against drug abuse in Sierra Leone took a major step forward as the Ministry of Social Welfare, under the leadership of Honourable Melrose Karminty, admitted forty (40) drug-affected individuals into the Daru Barracks Rehabilitation Centre in Kenema City. The move reflects the government’s renewed determination to protect the nation’s youth from the rising threat of substance abuse, particularly the use of Kush.
Minister Karminty’s presence at the ceremony underscored the government’s hands-on approach to addressing one of the country’s most pressing social crises. She emphasized that rehabilitation represents not punishment but “an act of love, redemption, and hope,” and that affected youths must be given the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
The Minister passionately appealed to families and communities to take shared responsibility in the recovery process, stressing that the government’s intervention is only one part of a collective national response. She reiterated that the administration of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio is committed to tackling drug abuse through comprehensive social and economic reforms, including the creation of 500,000 jobs for young people.
Addressing the newly admitted individuals, Mrs. Karminty encouraged them to view rehabilitation as a turning point, urging them to embrace humility, discipline, and renewed faith. She acknowledged the emotional toll addiction has taken on parents and families, commending their patience and resilience throughout the process.
The Minister concluded by reaffirming her ministry’s pledge to continue providing psychosocial support, counseling, and reintegration services for those affected. She called on civil society organizations, local leaders, and international partners to join hands in sustaining the national campaign against drug abuse and promoting a culture of responsibility, recovery, and hope.
