Makeni, Tuesday, June 30, 2026: Sierra Leone’s President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has strongly rejected attempts to label Sierra Leone a “narco state”, describing the characterization as unfair, misleading, and damaging to the country’s international image while reaffirming his government’s determination to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.
Speaking during the 2026 Presidential Town Hall Meeting at the University of Makeni (UNIMAK), organised by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education with the theme “Year of Action”, President Bio said drug trafficking is a transnational crime that requires stronger international cooperation rather than the stigmatization of individual countries.
Responding to questions from citizens, the President outlined measures his administration has taken to strengthen the fight against narcotics, including tougher legislation, enhanced law enforcement, expedited prosecution of drug-related offences, and expanded collaboration with international partners.
He disclosed that strengthened legal measures have resulted in more than 120 convictions in drug-related cases and that the Government has established five rehabilitation centres across the country to support the treatment and recovery of persons affected by substance abuse. He also revealed that Sierra Leone is working with international partners to prevent the importation of high-dose tramadol exceeding 50 milligrams and is awaiting a comprehensive assessment of the country’s maritime domain to strengthen efforts to intercept illicit drugs entering through its territorial waters.
President Bio emphasized that while criminal networks continue to exploit international trafficking routes, Sierra Leone should not be unfairly branded a “narco state.” He argued that such narratives ignore the global nature of the drug trade and undermine the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, security, and the rule of law.
He warned that portraying Sierra Leone as a narcotics hub could discourage foreign investment, weaken investor confidence, and overshadow the significant progress the country has made in strengthening its institutions and promoting sustainable development.
The President stressed that the fight against narcotics must be based on shared international responsibility, with countries of origin, transit, and destination working together to dismantle sophisticated criminal networks operating across borders.
He further maintained that his Government’s substantial investments in human capital development, particularly in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and social protection, would not be allowed to be undermined by the activities of drug traffickers and organised criminal groups.
President Bio reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting Sierra Leone’s borders, strengthening law enforcement institutions, and ensuring that anyone found violating the country’s drug laws is brought to justice. He called on citizens to support national efforts to combat substance abuse while urging international partners to deepen cooperation in intelligence sharing, maritime security, and cross-border law enforcement.
The President’s remarks formed part of a wide-ranging dialogue with citizens during the fourth Presidential Town Hall Meeting, which provided an open platform for Sierra Leoneans to engage directly with the Head of State on issues including the economy, constitutional reform, energy, education, healthcare, agriculture, national unity, and governance.