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The Ministry of Social Welfare has discharged a second batch of 60 former victims of drug and substance abuse from its rehabilitation programme at Tekoh Barracks in Makeni, with the beneficiaries recognised as Ambassadors of Positive Change.
The discharge ceremony, held on Friday, September 11, 2026, marks another step in the Government’s efforts to address drug and substance abuse through rehabilitation, recovery and reintegration. It comes three months after the first batch was discharged in June 2026.
Speaking at the ceremony, Social Welfare Minister Melrose Karminty reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to tackling drug and substance abuse and protecting young people from its effects. She urged the newly discharged ambassadors not to return to their former lifestyles but to use their experiences to inspire others, serve as positive role models and contribute to their communities.
Karminty also called on families and communities to support the beneficiaries as they reintegrate into society and avoid stigma and discrimination. She said President Julius Maada Bio believes in giving young people second chances to rebuild their lives and become change makers.
The Minister stressed that young people need to be mentally and physically healthy to benefit from government opportunities, including jobs and other initiatives. She said the Ministry would continue working with partners, families and communities to safeguard the mental and psychosocial wellbeing of people affected by drug and substance abuse.
Representing the discharged beneficiaries, one of the ambassadors expressed appreciation to the Government, relevant ministries, social workers, medical personnel, military personnel, families and other partners for supporting their rehabilitation.
He said the programme had helped the beneficiaries regain hope, recognise their potential and prepare to return to society as productive citizens. He pledged that they would use their experiences to encourage others affected by drug and substance abuse to seek rehabilitation and make positive choices.
The Ministry continues to emphasise rehabilitation, recovery and reintegration as key components of the Government’s response to drug and substance abuse, with the broader goal of protecting young people and helping affected individuals return to productive and dignified lives.
