As the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary mark 100 years of existence worldwide, the Sisters in Sierra Leone are reflecting on their 76 years of continuous presence and mission in the country. Led by Nigerian Sister Onyinyechukwu Bernadette Ezejesi, the Sisters are deeply concerned about the future of Sierra Leone due to the devastating impact of the synthetic drug Kush on the country’s youth.
As the Project Coordinator of the Fullness of Life for Children Management Programme, Sister Onyinyechukwu is committed to protecting children’s rights, especially focusing on the Girl Child and increasingly, the Boy Child. Apart from running schools, vocational training institutions, hospitals, and clinics, the Holy Rosary Sisters work tirelessly to prevent teenage pregnancies, child marriages, and abuse among the youth.
Since the emergence of Kush in Sierra Leone in 2016, the Sisters have witnessed a sharp increase in young people addicted to this highly addictive drug. Kush, known for making its users lethargic and ill, has caused a crisis among the youth, leading to deaths due to overdose.
President Julius Maada Bio recently declared a state of emergency and war on Kush in the country, recognizing the drug as a national threat. The Holy Rosary Sisters fully support the government’s efforts and continue to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, particularly Kush, among the youth.
In response to the crisis, the Sisters are actively engaging with communities, schools, and authorities to tackle the issue head-on. With a focus on prevention and community empowerment, they are determined to save the youth from succumbing to the devastating effects of Kush.
As Sierra Leone continues to recover from past crises, such as civil war, Ebola outbreak, and now Covid-19, the Holy Rosary Sisters remain steadfast in their mission to serve the people of God with compassion and without judgment. By responding to the needs of the time, the Sisters embody their charism through their dedication to helping the poor, marginalized, and oppressed in society.
