President Boakai's declared state of emergency on drug abuse multisector committee begins work.

By Abraham Multimedia Kollie

abrahamkollie@gmail.com

Monrovia, Liberia - President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has declared a state of emergency over the pressing public health issue of drugs and substance abuse in Liberia. The announcement was made during his state of the nation address on January 29, 2024.

In a significant step forward, the multisector committee, chaired by Dr. Louise Mapleh Kpoto, Minister of Health, held its first meeting at the Ministry of Health (MOH)

. The committee is composed of key ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Ministry of Education, Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning.

The committee’s mandate is to address the urgent need for coordinated action and to develop comprehensive strategies and a roadmap to combat drugs and substance abuse within a three-year timeframe. This includes assigning the duties and responsibilities of each participating ministry and agency.

Starting from Monday, February 19, 2024, the multisector committee will conduct a thorough assessment aimed at identifying rehabilitation sites for at-risk youth and evaluating the current state of drugs and substance abuse in Liberia. This initiative seeks to foster collaborative partnerships among law enforcement, healthcare, education, social services, donors, and other relevant sectors to tackle this complex issue.

According to the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP), Liberia is not a significant producer or transit country of illicit narcotics, but local drug use, especially of marijuana, is very common. Other drugs used include heroin, cocaine, amphetamine-type stimulants, and non-prescription drugs. The drug abuse problem affects mostly young people, who are vulnerable to health, social, and economic risks.

As Liberia confronts the challenges posed by drugs and substance abuse, the government remains committed to prioritizing the health and well-being of its citizens. Through concerted efforts and proactive measures, the government aims to safeguard our communities and create a safer, healthier future for all.