Religious Leaders Unite Against Drug Abuse at 9th Interfaith Dialogue in Freetown

The 9th Annual Interfaith Dialogue was held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Sheikh Tais Academy in eastern Freetown, bringing together religious leaders, humanitarian organizations, and community members in a strong display of unity, love, and compassion.

The event was organized and sponsored by the Tzu Chi Foundation, in partnership with the Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, comprising Healey International Relief Foundation, Lanyi Foundation, and Caritas Freetown. It drew representatives from Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Rastafarianism, and Orthodox denominations, underscoring Sierra Leone’s reputation for religious tolerance. Among the dignitaries present was Sheikh Abubakarr Fomba-Swarray of the Sierra Leone Muslim Missionary Union.

Welcoming participants, Margaret Bassie, Tzu Chi Foundation’s Sierra Leone representative, described the country as a beacon of religious harmony and reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to supporting the people of Sierra Leone.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Kamanda offered prayers for national peace and called on religious leaders and the Government to prioritize youth empowerment and constructive engagement.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Bangura, Deputy Director of Caritas Freetown, commended the Tzu Chi Foundation and its partners for their continued humanitarian support and solidarity with Sierra Leoneans.

In his address, Sheikh Fomba-Swarray urged unity and warned against divisions fueled by drug abuse particularly Kush and politics, encouraging young people to avoid destructive behaviors and take responsibility for the nation’s future.

A representative of the Jesus Is Lord Ministry reflected on love and sacrifice, drawing parallels between biblical acts of compassion and Tzu Chi’s humanitarian work, while urging citizens to shun Kush and celebrate the festive season peacefully.

Speaking for the Buddhist community, Mohamed Pabia highlighted the teachings of Master Chen Yen, emphasizing that actions have consequences and reaffirming Buddhism’s firm stance against drug abuse.

Representing the Rastafarian community, Theophilus Sarh Gbenda warned against silence on social ills, stressing that ignoring the dangers of Kush threatens the country’s future and calling for collective action to protect the youth.

Mr. John Conteh of the Ministry of Social Welfare thanked the Tzu Chi Foundation for its generosity and praised the Inter-Religious Council for sustaining peace, urging continued mutual respect and tolerance.

A goodwill message from the Tzu Chi Foundation was read by Margaret Bassie, followed by a symbolic distribution of rice to beneficiaries by religious leaders, symbolizing unity and shared responsibility.

The dialogue reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to peace, religious tolerance, and collective action, highlighting the strength of interfaith collaboration in addressing national challenges, particularly drug abuse, and building a compassionate future.