Recent findings have revealed the presence of nitazenes, a class of powerful synthetic opioids, in the drug consumption patterns of individuals in Africa. Nitazenes, known for their potency, have been linked to overdose deaths in Western countries and Asia. These opioids can be significantly stronger than heroin and fentanyl, posing a heightened risk of overdose and fatality due to their potency.
The report, focusing on Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau, highlighted that a significant percentage of kush samples, a cannabis derivative mixed with synthetic drugs and chemicals, contained nitazenes. In Sierra Leone, 83% of the samples tested positive for nitazenes, while in Guinea-Bissau, the figure stood at 55%.
The Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime emphasized that this discovery marks the first instance of nitazenes infiltrating retail drug markets in Africa. The prevalence of drug addiction among young people in West and Central Africa, with cannabis being the most commonly used illicit substance, has raised concerns.
Sierra Leone's President has taken a strong stance against kush, labeling it an epidemic and a national threat. The report underscored that many individuals consuming these substances are likely unaware of the risks associated with nitazenes, which are being imported into Sierra Leone from external sources.
The urgent need for chemical testing equipment in Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau was emphasized as a crucial step in combating drug abuse. Without such tools, accurately monitoring illicit drug markets and implementing evidence-based interventions would be challenging for the governments of these countries and the broader subregion.
