By Ishmael Bayoh, Information Attaché, Sierra Leone Embassy, Dakar
Dakar, Senegal — The Embassy of Sierra Leone in Senegal has launched a dual campaign aimed at combating human trafficking and drug abuse among Sierra Leonean communities in Senegal and Mauritania.
The official launch took place on Sunday, 9th November 2025, at the Paroisse Université St. Dominique Hall in Fann, Dakar, drawing Sierra Leoneans from across the country. The initiative comes in response to a troubling rise in cases of trafficking in persons and substance abuse involving Sierra Leonean nationals.
According to the embassy, it has intervened in multiple cases over the years, rescuing victims of trafficking and facilitating their repatriation to Sierra Leone. The situation has been particularly concerning in both Senegal and Mauritania, which fall under the embassy’s jurisdiction.
Addressing the gathering, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ibrahim Turay, strongly condemned the practices of human trafficking and drug abuse. He highlighted the devastating impact these crimes have on individuals—especially youth—and called for vigilance and accountability.
“Trafficking in persons destroys lives and futures,” Ambassador Turay said. “Young people must be cautious about the ventures they pursue and must stay away from drugs. Those involved in these crimes must be prosecuted.”
He cited a recent case involving an 11-year-old child who was nearly trafficked to Mauritania by a relative. The embassy intervened, and the perpetrator was arrested by the gendarmerie and is currently facing trial.
Ambassador Turay also referenced the national campaign against kush and other substances in Sierra Leone, noting that President Julius Maada Bio has mandated strict measures to eradicate the drug crisis.
Acting Head of Chancery, Evelyn Tanty Akakpo, shared harrowing stories of teenage girls trafficked into prostitution and drug abuse. She emphasized that such acts constitute serious human rights violations punishable under the laws of both Sierra Leone and Senegal.
Akakpo announced that the embassy will extend the campaign to various communities, engaging local leaders and stakeholders. A toll-free hotline has also been established to facilitate reporting, rescue operations, legal action, rehabilitation, and repatriation of victims.
The embassy’s campaign marks a significant step in protecting vulnerable Sierra Leoneans abroad and reinforcing the country’s commitment to human rights and public health.