Letter to Editor-CARE expresses concern over Julian Marley concert |03 November 2005

CARE recognises that reggae is a much appreciated and loved world-wide musical genre.

There is also concerted agreement that the raising of awareness on HIV/Aids and the financial support of a militant NGO in that field comprise a laudable and noble cause. Whilst CARE embraces such an initiative, there is nevertheless, concern over the potential soundness of the decision to bring such a concert within our midst.

It is true indeed that many people in Seychelles enjoy and express their musical liking of reggae freely and regularly. However, let it also be noted that as a musical genre, reggae has been manipulated to champion the pro-cannabis culture in many parts of the world, going as far as claiming legalisation status for cannabis.

Situated against this background, it is also a well-known fact that Seychelles is presently suffering from and battling against a major problem of illicit drug use, abuse and culture. Anchored in this culture is the emphasis on cannabis as a favourite drug of choice within our shores. In this context, there is therefore, justified concern over the potential effects this concert may symbolically have on the illicit cannabis culture in Seychelles.

During the recent sensitisation activities to commemorate World Mental Health Day, the daily newspaper, Seychelles Nation, stated on October 11, in an article entitled 'Sharp Rise In Drug-related Cases', that "by July 2005 there had been as many as 122 new admissions of patients whose mental conditions were triggered off by illicit drugs".

This figure compares with 80 such admissions in 2003 and 97 in 2004.  All figures were provided by the Ministry of Health.

It is in this light that CARE would like to appeal to the conscience and good sense of all authorities and individuals connected  with the organisation and realisation of such a concert, and other such concerts in the future, to seriously reflect on the potential impact on our national physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being.

Sarah Rene
For: CARE Executive Committee