On April 4th 2024 President Bio declared a national emergency, referring to the drug as a “death trap” and noting it presented an “existential crisis.” He, stated “Our country is currently faced with an existential threat due to the ravaging impact of drugs and substance abuse, particularly the devastating synthetic drug kush.” The death toll from Kush abusers has been rising. He approved the establishment of a National Task Force on Drugs and Substance Abuse, whose main objective would be to address the Kush epidemic. President Maada Bio noted medical facilities with enough personnel and qualified specialists would be established in each region to provide treatment and assistance to those struggling with drug addiction. Before this declaration civil society organisations such as Bright Start-Sierra Leone have been raising awareness in the community and offering skills training programs to keep youth active and productive.