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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 28070, member: 2262"] Ecowas gave the Drug Law Enforcement Agency money to build a Correction and Rehabilitation Centre at their Tranquil complex in Brusubi. The project costs D9 million and breaks new ground as the first facility of its kind anywhere in the country. Officials gathered yesterday to lay the foundation stone for this important building. The facility aims to help folks dealing with substance abuse problems and treat those suffering from drug-related mental health issues. DLEAG Director General Demba Ceesay talked about how his agency wants to address drug problems primarily as health concerns. He explained that DLEAG had always dreamed of creating this kind of treatment center for the community. Ceesay believes everyone should view young people struggling with drugs as victims needing help rather than criminals. His team hopes to change the Drug Control Act from 2003 to include better options besides putting people behind bars. These changes include community service programs for first-time offenders caught with certain substances and reduced fines for small amounts of specific drugs. The agency plans to offer counseling and job skills training for people affected by substance abuse issues. Dr. Modou Nyassi from Health Services strongly supported the initiative. He mentioned doctors treated over 200 new psychiatric patients already this year and provided ongoing care for more than 250 individuals battling addiction. Dr. Nyassi pointed out these numbers don't even count many others receiving treatment at different health facilities nationwide, including many cases at the main EFSTH hospital. He described the rehabilitation center as bringing hope to numerous families affected by mental health challenges, especially those impacted by substance use. Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang called the center a powerful symbol showing the nation's commitment to treating drug issues through public health approaches. Claude Kondor, political adviser to the Ecowas representative, also shared thoughts about the planned facility during the event. [/QUOTE]

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