By: Fatou Krubally
In a move to combat drug abuse and offer hope to victims of substance use disorders, The Gambia has launched the country’s first-ever Correction, Rehabilitation, and Treatment Center.
The foundation stone-laying ceremony took place on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Tranquil, Brusubi, marking a major milestone in the country’s fight against illicit drug use.
The project, fully funded by the ECOWAS Commission, is being spearheaded by the Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia (DLEAG), in partnership with the Ministry of Interior and key stakeholders in public health and social welfare.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Director General of DLEAG, Demba Ceesay, emphasized that the initiative represents a shift toward a more compassionate and health-centered approach to addressing drug-related challenges.
“This center will be a beacon of hope for individuals and families shattered by addiction. Society must begin to see youths struggling with drug abuse as victims rather than criminals. This facility will provide rehabilitation and reintegration services to help them rebuild their lives,” he stated.
For years, The Gambia has struggled with rising drug abuse, particularly among young people. Cannabis remains the most widely abused substance due to its availability, while new synthetic drugs pose an increasing threat.
Despite continued enforcement efforts, authorities recognize that punitive measures alone are insufficient.
The Minister of Interior, Hon. Abdoulie Sanyang, who presided over the ceremony, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a balanced approach.
“The war on drugs cannot be won by arrests alone. We must address addiction through correction, treatment, and rehabilitation. This center will offer counselling, skills training, and alternative sentencing programs to first-time offenders, ensuring that justice is not just punitive but also restorative,” the minister declared.
The ceremony was attended by Ambassador Miatta Lily French, ECOWAS Resident Representative in The Gambia, Dr. Simeon Koffi, Director of the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority, and other key dignitaries.
ECOWAS representative expressed their commitment to supporting anti-drug initiatives across the region, emphasizing that substance abuse is a growing crisis in West Africa that requires coordinated action.
DLEAG officials made it clear that the facility will not operate in isolation. Healthcare professionals, social welfare workers, and civil society organizations will play an integral role in ensuring its success.
“We cannot run this center alone,” Ceesay admitted. “We will collaborate with experts in public health, mental health, and social services to provide comprehensive care. Our goal is to restore dignity and offer real solutions to those affected by drug addiction.”
With construction now underway, the country eagerly anticipates the completion of the center, which is expected to transform lives and redefine the Gambia’s approach to substance abuse rehabilitation.
