Sierra Leone, a nation with a rich cultural heritage and vast natural resources, is facing a silent yet devastating crisis. The widespread abuse of Kush, a potent and highly addictive substance, has reached alarming levels among the country's youthful population at a proportion, threatening to undermine the country's progress and future. The grip of Kush has ensnared countless young lives, leaving families shattered and communities grappling with the consequences. This scourge has not only devastated individual lives but also imperils the nation's development and progress.

The failure of key stakeholders, including central government, religious institutions, the security sector as well as the traditional institutions and good parenting to curtail the devastating effects of Kush and similar drugs has been stark. Parents, often overwhelmed by economic challenges, have struggled to provide adequate guidance and support to their children.

The government, grappling with the legacy of institutional inefficiency, poor priority setting, lack of adequate rehabilitation and addiction treatment centers has faced significant challenges in addressing the issue effectively. Religious institutions, which could play a vital role in moral guidance, have also been criticized for not doing enough. Meanwhile, the security sector has been accused of corruption and ineffectiveness in tackling the drug trade. The consequences of this failure are dire. Kush addiction has led to increased crime rates, mental health issues, and a surge in unemployment and death among the youth. The nation's already overstretched healthcare system is further burdened by the need to treat addiction and related health problems. The economic impact is also significant, with families and communities bearing the brunt of lost productivity and increased health issues. It is imperative that the government and local communities take immediate and decisive action to address this crisis.

Key Stakeholders and Failures That Must Be Addressed Within Their Scope
The failure of good parenting
Good parenting is the bedrock of a stable and prosperous society. However, in Sierra Leone, many parents have failed to provide the necessary guidance and support to their children. The lack of parental supervision, coupled with poverty and unemployment, has created a vacuum that Kush and other drugs have exploited. Many young people are introduced to drugs by their peers or even family members, who often struggle with addiction themselves. The breakdown of family structures and values has contributed significantly to the spread of drug abuse among the youth.

The failure of the central government
The government of Sierra Leone has a critical role to play in addressing the Kush crisis. However, the lack of effective policies, inadequate resources, and corruption have hindered efforts to curb the menace. The government's inability to provide adequate support to families, create jobs, and provide alternative livelihoods has exacerbated the problem. Furthermore, the porous borders and weak law enforcement have allowed the influx of drugs into the country, making it a haven for traffickers.

The role of religious institutions
Religious institutions have a vital role to play in shaping the moral fabric of society. However, in Sierra Leone, many religious leaders have been criticized for their silence on the issue of drug abuse. The lack of vocal condemnation and failure to provide support to affected families have contributed to the normalization of drug use. Religious institutions must take a more proactive role in promoting values and providing guidance to their congregants.

The security sector's response
The security sector has a critical role to play in enforcing laws and protecting citizens. However, the lack of effective enforcement and corruption have undermined efforts to curb the drug trade. The security forces must be empowered to take decisive action against traffickers and dealers, and to provide support to those struggling with addiction.
The time for action is now. The government with it much talk about "Radical Inclusion" strategy, which is embedded in its development agendas, offers a promising approach. This strategy emphasizes the importance of involving all stakeholders, including youth, in the fight against substance abuse. Thus, by reenergizing this approach, the government can foster a solution to address the drug menace that has led to the death of hundreds of youths.
To effectively combat drug abuse, the government should prioritize the following measures:
- Establish a national task force to coordinate efforts to combat drug abuse.
- Increase funding for prevention and treatment programs.
- Provide training and support for law enforcement agencies to effectively tackle drug trafficking.
- Launch public awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse.
- Encourage community-led initiatives to address the root causes of drug abuse.
It is widely acknowledged that substances such as Kush and other harmful drugs, including tramadol, not only pose a threat to the potential of Sierra Leone’s youth but also risk undermining the fundamental progress of the nation. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard their future. Our youths are the architects of a brighter tomorrow, and it is our duty to protect them from the dangers of substance abuse. Thus, let us join forces to protect our youthful population, empower them with knowledge, and shield them from the dangers of substance abuse. Together, we can create a legacy that inspires hope, resilience, and a brighter future for Sierra Leone's next generation. The time to act is now. The future of Sierra Leone's youth depends on it.

The Devastating Effects
The effects of Kush drug abuse are far-reaching and devastating. The youth are dropping out of school, losing their jobs, and succumbing to addiction. The crime rate is rising, and communities are living in fear. The health sector is overwhelmed, and the economic burden is crippling. The future of Sierra Leone is being hijacked by the scourge of drugs.

A Call to Action
The time for action is now. The government, religious institutions, civil society, and individuals must join forces to address the Kush crisis. We must prioritize the well-being and safety of our youth and provide them with the support and guidance they need to thrive. We must also hold accountable those who traffic and peddle these harmful substances.

Recommendations
To address the Kush crisis, I recommend the following:
1. Strengthen laws and enforcement: The government must strengthen laws and enforcement to curb the influx of drugs and hold traffickers accountable.
2. Invest in prevention and treatment: Provide accessible and effective programs to prevent drug abuse and support those struggling with addiction.
3. Promote education and awareness: Educate the public, particularly youth, about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of making informed choices.
4. Support community initiatives: Empower local communities to develop and implement initiatives that address the root causes of drug abuse and provide support to those affected.
5. Foster a culture of inclusivity: Encourage a culture that values and supports all individuals, particularly youth, and provides opportunities for them to thrive.
6. Provide support to families: The government and civil society must provide support to families affected by drug abuse, including counseling, education, and economic empowerment.
7. “Radical Inclusion”: The government should apply its radical inclusion approach by engaging all stakeholders, youth, families, and communities in creating and implementing policies to address the Kush crisis.

Conclusion
The Kush crisis in Sierra Leone is a public health crisis that requires a comprehensive and inclusive response. By working together, we can protect the future of our youth and ensure that they have the opportunities they deserve. The government, local communities, and individuals must join forces to address this issue and create a brighter future for Sierra Leone.

About author
Ibrahim Jusu Tarawally is known for his deep expertise in human-centric development and social engineering. His academic background is extensive, featuring multiple master’s degrees in social justice, international development, public administration, and project management. Presently, he serves as an International Human Rights consultant and works as a freelance researcher. In addition, he is a doctoral candidate resided in the United States, where he continues to expand his knowledge and make meaningful contributions through research in his specialized fields.