By Yusufu Abu Sesay
The Advocacy for Youth Mental Health and Empowerment (AYMHE), a youth-based advocacy organization, has stepped up efforts to combat the growing challenges of substance abuse and mental health issues among young people in Sierra Leone.

In a community outreach session held on Saturday, 14th June 2025, in the Magazine and Susan’s Bay communities in Freetown, AYMHE engaged dozens of youth in a workshop focused on raising awareness, breaking the stigma around mental health, and promoting overall well-being. Facilitators from AYMHE educated participants on the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of early mental health intervention. The session included interactive activities and access to counseling services.
The initiative aims to equip young people with the knowledge, resilience, and support needed to navigate life’s challenges without resorting to harmful substances. AYMHE Board Chairman, Mohamed S. Conteh, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to building a mentally healthy generation through continued outreach, education, and advocacy. He emphasized the goal of empowering youth to become self-reliant and transforming the participating communities into role models in the fight against substance abuse.
AYMHE member, Madam Marian Nicholas provided a background on the organization’s mission, explaining that it was established to complement government efforts in raising awareness among youth about the dangers of drug abuse. She encouraged participants to stay hopeful, assuring them of AYMHE’s continued presence in their fight against kush and other harmful substances.
Community Chairman Mohamed P. Bangura noted a reduction in general kush consumption but expressed concern over the increased use of tramadol, even among children under ten. He thanked AYMHE for its efforts in engaging youth meaningfully.
Project Consultant Madam Esther Finda Sesay explained the scope of the initiative, “Fighting Against Kush and Substance Abuse in Sierra Leone,” targeting individuals aged 10 to 25, a critical developmental stage. She appealed to parents to monitor their children closely, warning of the devastating impact of drug abuse on their futures.
Alie Bangura, representing the Sierra Leone Police, expressed satisfaction with the engagement. He reiterated the force’s commitment to protecting life and property, stating, “We are deeply concerned about the effects of kush and other drugs on the youth, and we will play our part in addressing this issue.”
Mohamed Kamara, from the National Youth Commission, urged young people to take the message seriously. “As young people, we must recognize that drugs are not good for us. Avoiding them is the only way forward,” he said. Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Saidu Bah, reminded participants that youth are not just future leaders but current contributors to national development. He called on the government to address the root causes of drug abuse and control the entry of such substances into communities. “After this engagement, I believe 90% of you will make better choices,” he stated.
Dr. Lassana Lemon, a board member of AYMHE, stressed that mental health is a nationwide concern affecting individuals regardless of age or status. He used the example of paracetamol overdose to demonstrate the dangers of drug misuse. “As a medical practitioner, my advice is clear, stay away from substance abuse,” he urged.
Dr. Lemon also called on community stakeholders to take ownership of the issue, warning that the effects of drug abuse would eventually affect everyone, directly or indirectly. He emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing the crisis.
Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative and appealed for more regular engagements to continue the momentum in the fight against drug abuse and mental health challenges.