By: Amb Unisa Totti Fofanah
In a significant step toward addressing the escalating challenge of substance abuse in Sierra Leone, the PALAMA Rehabilitation Home has successfully concluded a comprehensive pre-admission training program designed to engage individuals affected by drug addiction while raising public awareness about the services and opportunities available at the facility. The training, held on Thursday, 12 March 2026, took place at the center’s premises along the Freetown Highway in Maforki, Port Loko District, bringing together stakeholders from government, civil society, and the community.
The initiative formed part of a broader strategy to prepare prospective beneficiaries for admission into the rehabilitation program while providing a platform for dialogue on the urgent need for structured intervention in combating substance abuse, particularly among young people. Participants were introduced to the operational framework of the rehabilitation home, including its counseling, treatment, and reintegration services, all aimed at restoring hope and dignity to individuals battling addiction.
The event attracted notable personalities who shared insights on prevention, recovery, and community engagement. Among those in attendance were Mark S. Goba, Samuel L. Kainyande, Amadu Robinson Sesay, and Edwina Sener. Their collective messages underscored the importance of collaborative action involving public institutions, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders in confronting the growing menace of drug abuse.
In an emotional and inspiring intervention, Ms. Sener shared her personal journey of overcoming addiction, offering encouragement to participants and reinforcing the belief that recovery is achievable with the right support structures. Her testimony resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom are currently struggling with substance dependency. The engagement provided a safe space for participants to openly share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for a healthier future.
Speaking to Public Trust Media, the Director of Public Service Life Foundation and Chief Executive Officer of PALAMA Rehabilitation Home, Ibrahim Bundu, expressed optimism about the long-term impact of the initiative. He emphasized that the establishment of the facility represents a proactive response to the alarming surge in drug use, especially among young people across the country. According to him, the rehabilitation home was conceived as a sanctuary for treatment, professional counseling, and social reintegration.
Hon. Bundu highlighted the devastating consequences of the widespread use of narcotics, particularly the synthetic substance commonly referred to as “Kush,” which has reportedly claimed numerous lives in recent years. He stressed that the PALAMA Rehabilitation Home stands as the first facility of its kind in Port Loko District, positioning itself as a vital partner in national efforts to mitigate the crisis. The center operates on a cost-recovery basis, a model he described as essential for ensuring sustainability while maintaining accessibility for vulnerable groups.
More than twenty individuals affected by drug addiction participated actively in the training sessions, engaging in interactive discussions and listening attentively to expert presentations. Their testimonies revealed the harsh realities of substance dependency, including social stigma, economic hardship, and deteriorating health conditions. At the same time, their willingness to seek help signaled a renewed sense of hope and determination to reclaim their lives.
Stakeholders present at the event called for intensified awareness campaigns, stronger policy frameworks, and increased investment in rehabilitation infrastructure nationwide. They emphasized that addressing substance abuse requires a holistic approach that combines prevention, treatment, and community-based reintegration programs.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Bundu reiterated the center’s commitment to fostering partnerships with government agencies, development organizations, and private sector actors. He noted that collective action remains crucial in safeguarding the nation’s youth from the devastating social and economic consequences of drug abuse. The PALAMA Rehabilitation Home, he affirmed, remains open to collaboration and support from all stakeholders committed to building a healthier and more resilient society.
Through initiatives such as this pre-admission training, the facility is not only preparing individuals for recovery but also contributing to a broader national dialogue on public health, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. As Sierra Leone continues to grapple with the complex challenges posed by substance abuse, interventions like PALAMA’s offer a beacon of hope for affected individuals and communities striving for transformation.