Thirteen people have successfully completed a rehabilitation programme offered by the Sedqa Agency. The programme, offered over a period of months, helps these people overcome their drug addiction.
Through this ceremony, Sedqa also celebrated those entities that through their efforts are contributing to a healthier society, also away from all types of addictions.
This annual celebration was held in the presence of Her Excellency Myriam Spiteri Debono, President of Malta, and the Minister for Social Policy and the Family, Michael Falzon.
Myriam Spiteri Debono, President of Malta, acknowledged the extraordinary journey of resilience, hope and change of each and every one of the graduates, and described this evening as the first step of a new beginning.
She also acknowledged the help that Sedqa has offered to those overcome by addictions and the agency’s commitment to prevention. At the end of her speech, the President also conveyed a message that there is a need to reduce prejudice in our society. Her words were that “those who are victims need help and not condemnation.”
During this evening, commemorative gifts prepared by the residents of the Santa Marija Community and commemorative souvenirs symbolizing the concept of responsibility, a reflection of empathy, respect, without contempt, distance or judgment, were also given. A ceremony during which a number of testimonies of people who have regained their lives and are living a healthy life away from any addiction or dependency stood out.
Minister Michael Falzon spoke about the social reality that is affecting both individuals and families, who are unfortunately being caught up in this addiction. “It is for this purpose that we continuously invest funding in both programs such as these and also professionals. Help is there and therefore I appeal to those who are in trouble to take this first step. Lack of action can mean much worse consequences the deeper the addiction goes,” stressed Minister Michael Falzon.
The Chief Executive of FSWS, Alfred Grixti explained that during 2025, the Sedqa Agency helped 2,037 people; while by mid-June of this year, another 1,832 people were given assistance by Sedqa professionals. He also spoke about the prevention programs, explaining that in 2025 there were 4,141 preventive programs in various sectors. This means that these programs reached more than 27 thousand people in one year. For the course of this year, Mr. Grixti said that so far 1,313 sessions have already been held, meaning training for more than 9,000 people.
Photos (MSF)
