Fatou Jobarteh made this remarks on Wednesday during the tabling of the motion on ‘illicit drugs and substance abuse among young people in The Gambia’ by youth parliamentarians at the National Assembly in Banjul.
Member for Latrikunda Sabiji, Ensa Sanneh suggested that civic education starting in primary schools should be introduced to expose young people to the dangers of illicit substances to prevent rampant usage and consequences in the future.
“Introducing this system at early school grades will allow these young people make informed choices. This can help curb the effects of these hard substances like marijuana, heroin, cocaine among others,” he said.
Nominated member for Persons Living with Disabilities, Cherno Ceesay, commended the Drug Law Enforcement Energy The Gambia (DLEAG) for their relentless efforts to combat illicit drug abuse and trafficking in the country.
He, therefore suggested the need for ensuring tighter security at the border posts. “Importation of these substances in the country tends to be easy which makes one wonder whether there is proper security at check points or border posts. Therefore, enforcing strict security can greatly contribute to its disengagement.” he said.
Member for Wulli East, Fatoumatta Jabai believes majority of the young people engaged in the abuse of illicit drugs and substances are school drop outs, adding that ‘if government provide or create employment opportunities the problem can be solved.’
