FTL Sensitizes Youths About Drug Abuse
Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL), a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics, has taken a proactive step in addressing the issue of drug abuse by embarking on its annual sensitization campaign at Moa Wharf and Seaside communities in Freetown over the weekend.
The Head of Media and Communications at FTL, Gassimu Fofana, emphasized the significance of the sensitization event, pointing out that drug abuse is a prevalent problem in the country, particularly among the youth population in the targeted communities. Fofana stressed that the primary objective of the campaign is to educate and raise awareness among young people about the detrimental effects of drug abuse, which pose a serious threat to their future well-being.
Furthermore, Fofana highlighted the company’s commitment to undertaking annual sensitization campaigns as part of its sustained efforts to address the issue of drug abuse within the communities. He emphasized that FTL is actively engaged in corporate social responsibility and recently provided scholarships to tertiary students in the two communities, in addition to distributing school and learning materials to pupils.
Aiah Nabiu Mokuwah, the Executive Director of the Institute of Drugs Center and Human Security, provided insights into the health effects and impact of narcotic drugs on the human body. Mokuwah emphasized the importance of prioritizing counseling and rehabilitation for drug addicts, rather than solely relying on punitive measures. He also highlighted the presence of twenty-seven drug experts in the country, and emphasized the need for education on the adverse effects of drug abuse.
Ibrahim Samura, the Acting Director of Blood Prevention Education and Training at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to controlling the spread of drugs in Sierra Leone. Samura attributed drug abuse to factors such as ignorance and stress, and commended FTL for its proactive approach in sensitizing the youths, describing it as the first step in saving them from a bleak future.
The sensitization event also featured testimonies from former drug addicts, providing firsthand accounts of the struggles and challenges they faced. Additionally, individuals, currently using drugs such as tramadol and kush, pledged to abstain from drug abuse, demonstrating a positive outcome of the sensitization initiative.
The annual sensitization campaign by FTL has underscored the company’s dedication to addressing the issue of drug abuse within the Moa Wharf and Seaside communities of Freetown. By collaborating with experts and stakeholders in drug prevention and education, FTL is actively contributing to the well-being and future prospects of the youths in these communities.
