Kush: A Looming Threat to Sierra Leonean Youths

Have you ever wondered how the heinous substance, “Kush”, is being grown and processed and its profound effect on our country and the future leaders – our youths? If yes, brace yourself as I steer you through everything you need to know about “Kush.” Ranging from the origin to the production method of this drug. And, don’t worry, it won’t be too long, I promise.

According to Altitude Dispensary, located in Denver, USA, the “Kush” leaf is grown in Northern Pakistan, Afghanistan, and North-western India. The cannabis plant contains compounds called cannabinoids, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which have potential medicinal properties. Okay, that was a massive one for someone with very little knowledge of Chemistry. Altitude Dispensary also identifies “Kush” Leaf medicinal marijuana known to provide relaxation, pain relief, and potential sedative effects.

However, it is reported that some unknown individuals spray synthetic chemicals on it, dry it and then package it for sale, rendering it extremely hazardous for human consumption. “Kush” (the manipulated version) causes paranoia and hallucinations, as noted by Jeremiah Wilhelm. Its users feel threatened even when there is no physical evidence. One typical example is a young man who claimed someone stole his leg after taking the drug. Kush also causes anxiety, depression, increases heart rate, and blood pressure, either low or high. Other long-term effects remain unknown.

Regrettably, many young people in Sierra Leone have become heavily addicted, unable to go a day without partaking in its consumption. Some even labor
throughout the day solely to save money for buying “Kush.”

Others resort to stealing petty items worth next to nothing, oblivious to any remorse. At times, one wonders if there is a spiritual connection driving those caught in the grip of “Kush” to commit such dishonourable acts.

Recently, a friend recounted an incident where a man attempted to steal a rubber bowl used for collecting rainwater. Although my friend saw the man’s actions, he refrained from labelling him a thief. He knew that confrontation could have led to violence, and “Kush” users are generally not prone to physical aggression. Instead, he pursued the man and retrieved the bowl. Moved by pity, he promised not to expose the incident, knowing the man’s behaviour was fuelled by “Kush”, and of course, what his fate would have been if he had alarmed “thief”!

What astounds me about this story is the thief’s level of humility and his plea for secrecy. Their peaceful nature is not coincidental, but it is concerning when their lives are jeopardized.

Furthermore, a few days ago, three people were found dead in Freetown, the country’s capital. One body was discovered inside a gutter in Cline Town, while another was found at Lodge Car Wash. The third person was discovered lying on the street in Lumley. Reports indicate that “Kush” was responsible for these tragic deaths. My heart aches as I write this article.

The most perplexing aspect is when we ask some of them why they consume “Kush,” they struggle to provide coherent reasons. Their response might be, “You won’t understand, bro! It makes me feel a certain way that’s difficult to explain.” Ironically, they cannot articulate their emotions. Others claim they turn to “Kush” due to the hardship experienced in our country, while some believe it gives them energy for strenuous labor.

From my observations, if decisive measures are not taken by the authorities to curb this societal menace – such as identifying and holding accountable those importing “Kush” – we will witness more untimely deaths in the coming years, even among seemingly healthy individuals. This is the grim future our society could become if we fail to address this problem promptly.