In a resolute effort to combat the pervasive issues of drug peddling and the circulation of counterfeit medicines plaguing Pujehun District, Chairman Foday Kandeh Rogers of the Pujehun District Council recently convened a town hall meeting in Jendema town, Bo Water Side Sorogbema chiefdom. The purpose was to engage with local business stakeholders, urging them to cease the sale of illicit drugs and unauthorized medical treatments in rural communities.

During the meeting, Chairman Rogers shed light on the alarming prevalence of drug peddlers operating throughout the district, administering fake treatments without the necessary qualifications or medical expertise. This trend, he emphasized, posed a grave threat to public health, as many residents opted for these dubious treatments instead of seeking proper medical care from qualified healthcare facilities.

In response to this pressing issue, Chairman Rogers announced the council's collaborative efforts with the district pharmacist to wage a comprehensive campaign against drug peddling. He pledged to liaise with the roving magistrate to ensure swift judicial action against offenders, underscoring the urgency of addressing this menace to safeguard the well-being of the district's populace.

Recognizing the critical role of community participation, Chairman Rogers called upon local businesses to actively collaborate with the council and the district pharmacist in eradicating drug peddling. He urged them to report any suspicious activities or individuals engaged in the distribution of counterfeit drugs, emphasizing the collective responsibility to uphold public health and safety.

Moreover, Chairman Rogers stressed the importance of raising awareness among the general populace about the dangers posed by illicit drugs and counterfeit medicines. He urged the district pharmacist to spearhead educational initiatives, public campaigns, and community outreach programs to ensure that residents were well-informed about the risks associated with these substances.

Echoing Chairman Rogers' sentiments, District Pharmacist Pharm Algasemu issued a stern warning against the illegal operations of drug peddlers within the district. He emphasized the inherent risks associated with obtaining medications from unauthorized sources, highlighting the lack of proper dosages, potential drug interactions, and other critical factors essential for safe healthcare delivery.

Pharm Algasemu urged residents to exercise caution and vigilance when acquiring drugs, emphasizing the importance of verifying the legitimacy and credibility of their sources. He pledged to collaborate with the district health management team to launch extensive public education campaigns on the dangers of drug peddling and related offenses.

Civil society activist Abdulai J. Sillah commended the proactive measures taken by Chairman Rogers and the district pharmacist to address this pressing issue. He emphasized the detrimental impact of receiving incorrect treatments from drug peddlers, citing instances of avoidable deaths resulting from such practices. Sillah urged residents to prioritize seeking medical care from authorized healthcare providers and to refrain from patronizing illicit drug vendors.

The concerted efforts of Chairman Rogers, Pharm Algasemu, and civil society activists reflect a unified commitment to combat illegal pharmaceutical activities, safeguard public health, and promote community well-being in Pujehun District. Through collective action and sustained advocacy, they endeavor to create a safer and healthier environment for all residents, thereby fostering a culture of integrity and accountability within the healthcare sector.