By Fatima Kpaka
Bo, Sierra Leone – June 26, 2025: In celebration of World Drug Day, the local NGO People’s Effort Advocating for Community Empowerment Sierra Leone (PEACE SALONE) hosted a community engagement session at the National Rehabilitation Centre on Drugs and Substance Abuse in Gondama, Bo. The event targeted reformed drug users—referred to as Service Users—and focused on the health and social implications of substance abuse.
The initiative formed part of PEACE SALONE’s broader advocacy efforts under the Sub-Sahara Africa Consortium for the Advancement of Innovative Research and Care for Sepsis (STAIRS). Speaking to the Service Users, CEO Arauna Kamara said drug abuse remains a cross-cutting health issue and emphasized the link between substance dependency and other critical public health concerns, including sepsis.
“World Drug Day is not just another day on the calendar—it is a global call to action,” Kamara declared. “This year’s theme, ‘Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All’, is a blueprint for what is possible through community, compassion, and commitment.”
He noted that addiction is a public health condition—not a moral failure—and called on community members, policymakers, and families to embrace empathy over stigma. Kamara stressed the need for early intervention, mental health support, and youth engagement to tackle the root causes of drug use.
Kamara applauded the government for supporting the rehabilitation center and praised churches such as Winners Chapel in Bo, which contributed to the spiritual transformation of residents. “The Service Users here are living testimonies. Many have committed to a drug-free life and are ready to return to their communities as ambassadors of positive change,” he added.
The Center Coordinator, Piloya Grace Nollahh, confirmed that the first batch of reformed Service Users is set to be discharged in July. She acknowledged the significant progress made through a blend of therapy, prayer, and social support.
James Fawundu, PEACE SALONE’s acting Health Advocacy Officer, highlighted the importance of continued awareness and peer support: “These individuals now understand the dangers of substances like Kush and Tramadol. Their insight and courage can help break cycles of abuse.”
Jeremiah Stevens, Development Officer at PEACE SALONE, reaffirmed the NGO’s commitment to youth empowerment. “Our goal is to help build a society where people can make informed, life-enhancing decisions. Engaging young people in recovery is essential to that mission.”
World Drug Day, officially designated by the UN General Assembly in 1987, is observed every year on June 26 to raise global awareness about the impact of illicit drugs and foster a cooperative response to drug trafficking and abuse.