National Commission for Democracy-Sierra Leone

NCD INTENSIFIES DRUG ABUSE AND POLITICAL TOLERANCE SENSITISATION IN FREETOWN

Freetown, 20 August 2026 — The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has continued its public sensitisation campaign on drug abuse and political tolerance, engaging residents and young people in Old School Car Wash, Old School Junction, Dwazack Junction and Congo Town Market.

At Old School Car Wash, residents expressed concern over the increasing use of drugs among young people. One resident, Kelly, called for a community workshop involving drug users, alleged drug dealers, parents and other stakeholders to discuss the problem and find practical solutions.

At Old School Junction, Aunty Amie Samura commended the NCD for its efforts and appealed for continued sensitisation, noting that many children in the community are increasingly at risk of drug abuse.

A notable moment occurred at Dwazack Junction when two teenagers, aged about 16 and 12, were seen advising each other about the dangers of drug use. The older boy encouraged the younger one to stay away from tramadol and other illicit drugs. Other officers of the Commission, Jamestina Samuels, Senior Administrative and Human Resources Officer, and Massah G. Senesie, Senior Gender Officer, joined the campaign and held one-on-one engagements with women and youth to discuss the vices of drug abuse and political intolerance. They also spoke about the virtues of national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.

At Congo Town Market, Aunty Christiana called for stronger action to address drug abuse, while Aunty Adama encouraged the NCD to extend its sensitisation programmes to other vulnerable communities, including Kolleh Town, Crab Town and Kingtom Bummeh.

The outreach forms part of the NCD’s ongoing efforts to educate citizens, particularly young people, about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of peaceful coexistence, responsible citizenship and political tolerance.

For more information, contact the Media and Communications unit on 076209247

NCD Awareness and Civic Education Reaches Murray Town, Crab Town, Kolleh Town, and Kingtom Communities

Freetown, 19 August 2026 — The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) on Wednesday engaged youth across Murray Town, Oloshorow, Crab Town, Kolleh Town and Kingtom in a civic education drive targeting drug abuse and political intolerance.

Led by Senior Public Education Officer Edward B. S. Dumbuya, the outreach team warned residents of the dangers both vices pose to national stability and urged young people to shun narcotics, reject violence, and embrace unity and responsible citizenship.

"Even though we may have different political opinions and affiliations, such differences should not divide us," Dumbuya told residents. "We must maintain unity in that diversity as we build the only country we truly call home."

He called on Sierra Leoneans to unite against the country's escalating drug crisis, singling out the spread of Kush and other illicit substances among youth as a growing threat.

The five communities were selected for their vulnerability to drug abuse, gambling and related social problems. Residents welcomed the intervention.

At Oloshorow Tipper Ground, community member Abdul praised the NCD's sustained anti-Kush messaging and urged the Commission to extend the campaign to Old School Community, another area he flagged as hard-hit by drug abuse. He also thanked the Government of Sierra Leone for backing the initiative and encouraged NCD to keep the engagements going.

NCD says it will continue working with citizens, community leaders, parents, and young people to promote peace, political tolerance, national unity, and a drug-free Sierra Leone.

For more information, contact the Media and Communications Department on 076209247

NCD TAKES CIVIC EDUCATION ON DRUG ABUSE AND POLITICAL TOLERANCE TO ABERDEEN AND LUMLEY COMMUNITIES

The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has continued its civic education activities by taking its message on drug abuse and political tolerance to residents and other members of the public in Aberdeen and Lumley on Monday, 17 August 2026.

The outreach was led by the Commission’s Public Education Officer, Umaru Conteh, together with members of the Public Education Team. The exercise formed part of the NCD’s ongoing efforts to educate citizens on issues affecting their communities and to encourage them to play an active role in promoting peace, responsible citizenship and national development.

The team first engaged members of the public around the Aberdeen Roundabout, including business people, passengers, drivers and passersby. The discussion focused on the dangers of drug abuse and the impact it continues to have on individuals, families and communities.

During the engagement, citizens were encouraged to understand that drug abuse is not only an individual problem but a concern that affects society as a whole. The team spoke about some of the negative effects of harmful drugs, particularly on young people, and encouraged community members to work together to prevent drug abuse and support those who may be struggling with the problem.

The team later moved to Aberdeen Ataya Base One, where they continued the sensitization exercise. Citizens were encouraged to take the issue seriously and to contribute to efforts to keep their communities safe by discouraging the use and distribution of harmful drugs.

The Public Education Team also emphasized the importance of families, community leaders and ordinary citizens in preventing drug abuse. They encouraged people to speak up, educate young people and work with relevant authorities whenever they come across activities that could put members of the community at risk.

From Aberdeen, the team proceeded to Lumley, where they engaged citizens at the newly constructed park and around the Lumley Safecon Roundabout. Similar messages on drug abuse and its effects were shared with members of the public.

The team reminded citizens that the fight against drug abuse cannot be left to the government or law enforcement agencies alone. Everyone has a role to play, especially parents, community leaders, young people and other influential members of society.

The sensitization also touched on the importance of political tolerance. Citizens were encouraged to respect people with different political views and to avoid political disagreements that could lead to violence, division or conflict.

The NCD stressed that political differences are a normal part of a democratic society and should be handled through dialogue, respect and peaceful means. Citizens were encouraged to put the interests of their communities and the country above political differences.

The exercise gave the Public Education Team the opportunity to interact directly with people in their everyday environments, listen to their concerns and share practical messages on issues that affect their communities.

For more information, contact the Media and Communications unit on 076209247

CITIZENS DEMAND MORE SENSITIZATION AS NCD TAKES CIVIC EDUCATION TO COMMUNITIES

13 August 2026. The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has intensified its civic education and sensitization campaign, with citizens calling for more sustained awareness programmes in their communities.
During the third week of the campaign, the NCD team engaged residents, traders, commercial drivers, okada riders, and passersby at Wilberforce Roundabout, Wilberforce Market, and Tengbeh Town Market, focusing on political tolerance, drug abuse, and constitutional rights.

At the Wilberforce Spur Loop Junction, NCD officer Zainab Turay engaged members of the public in interactive discussions, allowing citizens to share experiences and raise concerns. Some participants expressed appreciation for the initiative and called for more regular community sensitization.

At the Wilberforce Parking Ground, a young woman, Hawanatu Conteh, shared her personal experience with drug addiction, which she said led to her leaving her parents’ home and living on the streets. She appealed for support while urging young people to avoid drugs and the devastating consequences of addiction.

At Tengbeh Town Market, community members welcomed the initiative and appealed to the NCD to make regular visits to the area. Parents Emma Kamara, Magdalene Kamara, and Augustine Kallon expressed concern over the growing prevalence of drug abuse among young people and called for sustained awareness and community engagement.

The NCD remains committed to taking civic education directly to citizens and documenting community concerns to inform Government and other stakeholders.

The Commission believes that sustained public education and community engagement are essential to building a peaceful, tolerant, informed, and democratic Sierra Leone.

For further information, contact the Media and Communications Unit on 076209247

NCD INTENFIES AWARENESS AND CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN ON DRUG ABUSE, POLITICAL TOLERANCE, AND THE 2025 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROCESS

5th August, 2026. The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has intensified its nationwide civic education campaign, engaging residents of the Lumley and Malama communities on the dangers of drug abuse, the importance of political tolerance, and the ongoing 2025 Constitutional Amendment process currently before Parliament.

Despite heavy rainfall, the NCD team continued its community outreach, reaffirming the Commission's commitment to promoting responsible citizenship, peaceful coexistence, and democratic participation.

Led by Public Education Officer Umaru Conteh, the team encouraged citizens to reject drug abuse, particularly harmful substances affecting young people, and highlighted the need for collective action by families, communities, schools, and religious institutions to address the growing menace.

The outreach also emphasized the importance of political tolerance by encouraging citizens to respect differing political views, reject hate speech and violence, and resolve disagreements through peaceful dialogue.

As part of the engagement, residents were sensitized on the ongoing 2025 Constitutional Amendment process, with the Commission urging citizens to follow the parliamentary proceedings and participate meaningfully in discussions on the proposed constitutional reforms.

Community members welcomed the initiative and commended the Commission for bringing civic education directly to their communities.

The NCD remains committed to expanding public awareness and strengthening democratic values through sustained community engagement across Sierra Leone.

For further information, contact the Media and Communications Unit on 076209247

FUNKIA GODERICH AND JUBA COMMUNITIES APPLAUDE NCD FOR BRINGING CIVIC EDUCATION AND AWARENESS ON DRUG ABUSE AND POLITICAL TOLERANCE TO THEIR LOCALITIES

In continuation of its civic education and public awareness campaign on drug abuse and political tolerance, the National Commission for Democracy (NCD), today 30th July 2026, engaged the Funkia, Goderich, and Juba communities in the Western Area.

The sensitization exercise covered key locations, including the Milton Margai Technical University Goderich Campus, Freetown Road in Funkia, Funkia Market, Funkia Junction, and the Tipper Ground area in Juba. The campaign focused primarily on raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of political tolerance, particularly among young people and other vulnerable groups.

At Freetown Road near the Funkia Community Centre, more than 100 community members, including youths, women, children, and elderly people, gathered to listen to the Public Education Officer deliver messages on the harmful effects of drug abuse and the need for peaceful political coexistence.

The message was warmly received by residents, many of whom expressed concern about the growing impact of drug abuse on young people in their communities.

One elderly community member, Mr. Joseph John shared a personal experience, explaining that his 16-year-old son had once become involved in drug addiction. According to him, through persistent guidance, encouragement, and parental intervention, he was able to help his son overcome the problem.

Mr. John encouraged other parents to remain vigilant and persistent in guiding their children away from drug abuse. He also appealed to the National Commission for Democracy to conduct sensitization programmes more frequently in the area, noting that some communities are vulnerable to both drug abuse and electoral violence.

The outreach also extended to Tipper Ground, where the Commission engaged residents and youths working in the park. Given the vulnerability of some sand-mining communities to drug abuse and other social challenges, the Commission emphasized the importance of making responsible choices, avoiding harmful substances, and promoting peace and political tolerance.

The message reached various parts of the Tipper Ground area, with several young people expressing their commitment to joining efforts to combat drug abuse within their community. They also encouraged the Commission to continue visiting the area regularly to strengthen public awareness on drug addiction, civic responsibility, and political tolerance.

The National Commission for Democracy reaffirmed its commitment to taking civic education directly to communities across Sierra Leone, particularly areas where young people and other vulnerable groups may be exposed to social challenges. Through sustained public education and community engagement, the Commission continues to promote responsible citizenship, peaceful coexistence, and a culture of political tolerance.

For more information, contact the Media and Communications Department on 076209247

NCD continues its Public Education and Awareness Campaign on Drug Abuse and Political Intolerance at Hamilton Village

Today, 29th July 2026, the National Commission for Democracy (NCD) engaged the Hamilton Village Community as part of its public education and awareness raising campaign on drug abuse and political intolerance

The sensitization exercise targeted key locations, including Tipper Ground Wharf, Hamilton Junction, and other parts of the Hamilton community.

Hamilton is a coastal community where many young people depend on sand mining and okada riding as their primary source of livelihood. However, the community also faces growing challenges related to drug abuse and political intolerance, particularly among the youth, making it an important location for the Commission’s awareness-raising activities.

The outreach officer, Mr. Edward B. S Dumbuya, who delivered comprehensive and engaging messages on Drug Abuse and Political Tolerance, emphasized about the harmful effects of illicit drug use, including substances such as kush, tramadol, and ecstasy, and urged young people to reject drug abuse and adopt healthy, productive lifestyles. He also highlighted the importance of political tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect among citizens as Sierra Leone prepares for the next general elections in less than two years.

The messages were warmly received by community members, particularly Madam Mabinty, popularly known as Chairlady, who commended the Commission for bringing these important civic education messages to Hamilton. She appealed to the NCD to visit the community more frequently, noting that regular engagement would help educate young people on the dangers of drug abuse and encourage them to become responsible and productive members of society.

During this interactive session, Madam Mabinty reiterated the community’s desire for weekly sensitization programmes to help address the increasing rate of drug abuse among young people. In response, the NCD team explained that while the Commission remains committed to promoting good governance, civic responsibility, and democratic values across every part of Sierra Leone, its outreach activities are implemented in phases due to limited financial and logistical resources.

The National Commission for Democracy remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering citizens with knowledge that promotes peace, national cohesion, responsible citizenship, and democratic governance throughout Sierra Leone.

For more enquiries, contact the public education unit on 076209247

NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR DEMOCRACY (NCD) CONTINUES DAY TWO PUBLIC EDUCATION ENGAGEMENT DESPITE RAINY WEATHER

On Thursday, 23 July 2026, the Commission’s Public Education Team continued Day Two of the second phase of its community sensitization campaign in the Lakka and Ogoo Farm communities. The outreach, conducted through the Commission’s public address system (OB) van, focused on raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse while promoting responsible citizenship and community participation.

Despite persistent rainfall throughout the exercise, the team remained steadfast in delivering key public education messages to residents. The campaign attracted the attention of community members, particularly young people, who actively engaged in discussions on the harmful effects of illicit drugs such as kush, tramadol, ecstasy, and other dangerous substances.

The awareness session at Ogoo Farm was especially vibrant and interactive. Community members enthusiastically participated in discussions, asked questions, and shared their views on the growing challenge of substance abuse among young people. The campaign received a significant boost when two youths from the community, Ibrahim Bangura (popularly known as Kenny) and Musa Bah, voluntarily joined the NCD team to encourage their peers to reject drug abuse and embrace productive, healthy lifestyles. Musa Bah also offered Islamic prayers (Duas) for his peers. Their involvement reflected the growing ownership of the anti-drug campaign by community members and underscored the importance of peer-to-peer advocacy in addressing substance abuse.

During the engagement, Public Education Officer Zainab Turay led an interactive session with the youths of Ogoo Farm. Through open dialogue and practical discussions, she highlighted the devastating social, economic, and health consequences of drug abuse while encouraging young people to become ambassadors for positive change within their communities. The enthusiastic participation and thoughtful responses from the youths demonstrated that the campaign’s messages were well received and clearly understood.

The ongoing sensitization campaign forms part of the National Commission for Democracy’s broader public education programme aimed at empowering citizens with the knowledge and information needed to make informed decisions and contribute positively to national development. By taking its messages directly to communities through its mobile outreach initiative, the Commission continues to strengthen public awareness on critical national issues while fostering active community participation.

The National Commission for Democracy remains committed to sustaining its nationwide public education efforts and reaching communities across the country with messages that promote responsible citizenship, peaceful coexistence, and a drug-free society.

For further enquiries, please contact the Media and Communications Team of the National Commission for Democracy on 076209247.