Hon. Ibrahim Barrie Urges Support for Rehab Centers Amid Kush Crisis
An opposition MP, Hon. Ibrahim Barrie, representing Bombali District, has called on the leadership of the House of Parliament to provide urgent support for kush victims in rehabilitation centers across Sierra Leone, emphasizing the pressing need for medical assistance and counseling.
Hon. Barrie made his appeal on Thursday, October 31, 2024, in the House of Parliament, citing Standing Order 23. “Madam Speaker, let us not forget the kush victims. They urgently need medical support and counseling at rehabilitation centers,” he emphasized.
He further highlighted the critical lack of resources in the country’s rehabilitation centers, referencing his recent visit to the “Action for Rehabilitation for Poor Victims” center in Makeni. Barrie noted that the center, accommodating over 100 kush victims, is struggling due to limited support. He pointed out that Bombali District currently has no dedicated rehabilitation center for kush victims, despite the growing crisis.
The head of the Makeni center shared with Hon. Barrie that while isolating individuals may seem helpful, overcoming addiction requires comprehensive medical support and counseling. Hon. Barrie expressed his commitment to addressing this need by urging the National and District Taskforce to extend their support to such centers, aligning with the government’s human capital development goals.
The MP expressed concerns that many young Sierra Leoneans, who could otherwise serve as police officers, teachers, and doctors, are now victims of drug addiction. “What is the National and District Taskforce doing?” he questioned. He called on the House to invite the Ministry of Social Welfare and other stakeholders to provide targeted support.
Additionally, Barrie advocated for collaboration between rehabilitation centers and vocational institutions, suggesting that, after rehabilitation, young people should have access to scholarships and skills training in fields like carpentry and tailoring to facilitate their reintegration into society.
As addiction rates continue to rise, Hon. Barrie stressed the broader impact on Sierra Leone’s youth, families, and communities. He urged Parliament to prioritize resources for these initiatives, stating that addressing this crisis is essential for the health, social stability, and security of the country.
“This crisis affects not only health, but also social stability, security, and the potential of Sierra Leone’s youth,” he concluded, urging Parliament to act swiftly.
