‘We can’t let youth fall victim to new drug epidemic’

As he brought the issue to the spotlight, Yapha, one of the top activists who advocates not only for his nation of birth but the entire Africa continent, describes the current drug crisis gripping West Africa, especially Sierra Leone, and now subsequently detected in The Gambia, as disappointing and equally concerning.

“The gravity of the situation lies in the fact that these countries are already battling challenging conditions, and the emergence of this lethal chemical substance synthesised with human bones has become a distressing phenomenon,” he states in a dispatch seen by The Point.

The activist expressed distress over the fact that drugs are predominantly being consumed by vulnerable youth who lack the necessary services and basic drug care.

He also moaned the culture of silence that surrounds the topic of drugs, which renders it a taboo with regards to discussion, although the reality manifests that drug abuse has pervaded every facet of Gambian society.

The drug’s notorious association with renowned international Gambian Sprinter, Gina Bass, due to its “stimulant properties and its powerful effects on the human brain” particularly worries the young activist.

Moreover, the absence of support system or care for those entangled in the abuse worsens the predicament, according to the Yapha.

The nation lacks a facility to specifically care, and properly and adequately rehabilitate drug addicts and youngsters consequentially suffering from their use. Although it continues to exert efforts to minimise psychiatric illnesses, Tanka Tanka psychiatric facility in Banjul is constrained by lack of adequate resources and fundamental facilities, he claimed.

As the Kush continues to colonise marginalised communities and vulnerable youngsters and teenagers, calls for the establishment of such facilities are projected to mount.

“We implore our government and civil society groups to recognise the urgency and gravity of this situation. It is crucial to stigmatise drugs and openly discuss this pressing matter within our societies. Immediate measures should be taken to establish first aid support systems for those affected by drug abuse, irrespective of the underlying causes, be it mental, social or systemic in nature,” he said.

“We cannot stand idly by as the youth of our nations fall victim to this new drug epidemic. Our governments and civil society organisations must come together to implement comprehensive and sustainable strategies that have access to effective support collaborative efforts and an open dialogue can we hope to mitigate the devastating impact of drug abuse on our societies,” he stated.

“Let us prioritise the well-being and future of our young generations by tackling this urgent issue head-on. By uniting in our resolve, we can safeguard the health and prosperity of our nations and ensure a brighter future for all,” he concluded.