Mamadu Sallieu Barrie, AYV News, November 6, 2024
In a significant move to combat the growing drug abuse crisis in Sierra Leone, Dr. Micheal Pieh has been appointed as the Global Chairman of the Kush Campaign for the Sierra Leone Diaspora in the United States.
The announcement was made by Ambassador Sidique Abou-Bakarr Wai, the Sierra Leonean Ambassador to the U.S., during the 3rd Annual Symposium of Health Care Sierra Leone USA held in Michigan on October 19, 2024.
The symposium was attended by prominent figures, including Dr. George V. Samson of World Medical Relief and Dr. Charles Senesie, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Health. During the event, Dr. Samson pledged over $2 million in medical supplies to support Dr. Pieh’s initiatives.
Dr. Pieh’s official appointment took place on October 24, in response to the urgent need to address the Kush crisis—a synthetic drug that has wreaked havoc on communities across Sierra Leone. This public health emergency prompted a declaration by President Julius Maada Bio, who, in a national address on April 4, 2024, called for increased efforts from security forces to combat the substance and highlighted the need for effective interventions and community involvement.
Earlier this year, Dr. Pieh announced a donation of medical supplies worth over $6 million to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, extending his medical mission to Moyamba district and Bureh Beach.
As the current chairman of Healthcare Sierra Leone in the U.S., Dr. Pieh brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His organization comprises hundreds of dedicated medical professionals committed to enhancing healthcare services in Sierra Leone. Under his leadership, Healthcare Sierra Leone has made significant strides in improving healthcare accessibility and affordability for all citizens.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Pieh’s organization was instrumental in mobilizing resources and funds to support the Sierra Leone government’s crisis management efforts, providing essential medical supplies to healthcare facilities, and reaffirming his commitment to public health.
Dr. Pieh’s appointment as the Diaspora Global Chairman of the Kush Campaign underscores his strategic leadership and proven ability to address healthcare challenges. His dedication to improving health outcomes for Sierra Leoneans, both at home and abroad, has garnered widespread recognition.
Dr. Pieh holds an MD and MPH/TM, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine, and has completed a residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Connecticut. He has also served as an Assistant Professor of Medicine and Program Director for the Hospitalist Program at the William Beaumont School of Medicine.
As a trusted leader, Dr. Pieh has consistently demonstrated his ability to inspire and mobilize communities for the greater good. His vision of a drug-free society and commitment to supporting affected communities will be crucial as the Kush Campaign aims to raise awareness, provide assistance, and foster collaborative efforts to combat drug abuse.
Following his appointment, Dr. Pieh expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by Ambassador Wai and reiterated his determination to drive positive change in the fight against the Kush crisis. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and the necessity for comprehensive strategies that encompass education, prevention, and rehabilitation.
With Dr. Micheal Pieh at the helm, the Kush Campaign in the United States is poised to make meaningful progress in addressing the challenges of drug abuse, amplifying the voices of those affected, and advocating for effective solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad.
