At Int'l Drug Day Commemoration, GASD Raises Alarm Over Liberia’s Growing Drug Crisis, Calls for Urgent National Strategy”

Monrovia, Liberia – June 26, 2025

In a powerful show of unity and determination, the Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD) and its partners on June 25, 2025, convened the 3rd Annual Youth Policy Dialogue on Drug Prevention in Liberia, aligning with the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The high-level national event brought together policymakers, public health experts, civil society leaders, youth advocates, and development partners under the theme “Empowering Youth, Strengthening Prevention: A United Liberia Against Drug Abuse.”

This landmark gathering served as a platform for dynamic and solution-oriented dialogue focused on combating the growing drug crisis in Liberia—particularly its impact on young people. Participants engaged in rich discussions that generated a unified call for action: to advance youth-centered, evidence-based policies that prioritize prevention, treatment, and long-term recovery.

The dialogue emphasized the duality of Liberia’s youth: disproportionately vulnerable to drug use yet uniquely positioned as agents of change in the national fight against substance abuse. From panel discussions to policy brainstorming sessions, the event reinforced the urgent need for inclusive, community-led strategies to mitigate the social, economic, and public health impacts of drug use.

Mr. Christopher S. Bangaou, in his program overview, highlighted that as drug abuse in Liberia becomes increasingly tied to poverty, unemployment, mental health issues, and crime, national strategies must go beyond awareness-raising. He stressed the importance of holistic, youth-informed, and intergenerational approaches grounded in lived experience and data.

Attorney Siaffa Bahn Kemokai II, Special Assistant to the Minister of Justice

For his part, Attorney Siaffa Bahn Kemokai II, Special Assistant to the Minister of Justice, delivered a compelling keynote address emphasizing the legal dimensions of drug prevention. He called for stronger legal remedies to tackle drug trafficking and distribution networks while protecting the rights and welfare of young users. His remarks underscored the need to balance enforcement with access to justice, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Mrs. Abigal B.L. Freeman, Executive Director of the Alliance for the Peace, Justice and Human Rights (APJHR),

In her presentation, Mrs. Abigal B.L. Freeman, Executive Director of the Alliance for the Peace, Justice and Human Rights (APJHR), focused on “Substance Abuse and Young Women: A Gender-Sensitive Approach to Prevention and Support.” She highlighted how young women face unique vulnerabilities—often shaped by trauma, exploitation, and social stigma. Freeman stressed the need for prevention programs to incorporate gender sensitivity, access to mental health and reproductive services, and safe spaces for support. "Prevention that ignores gender is prevention that fails," she asserted.

Mr. Brehnev D. Paasewe, Program Manager for Peace and Security at Catholic Relief Services (CRS)

Mr. Brehnev D. Paasewe, Program Manager for Peace and Security at Catholic Relief Services (CRS), addressed the theme “Strengthening Drug Prevention as a Pillar for Peace and Security in Liberia.” He argued that substance abuse undermines national stability, fuels youth violence, and disrupts social cohesion. Paasewe called for a robust national prevention framework anchored in community resilience, youth empowerment, and peacebuilding principles to counter the root causes of drug use and create sustainable alternatives for Liberia’s at-risk youth.

Aaron Debeh, Substance Use Disorder Focal Person at the Ministry of Health, Liberia

Also contributing to the dialogue, Aaron Debeh, Substance Use Disorder Focal Person at the Ministry of Health, delivered a presentation on “Breaking the Cycle: Integrating Mental Health Support into Drug Prevention Strategies for Sustainable Youth Empowerment.” He emphasized that substance abuse and mental health challenges are interlinked and must be addressed in tandem. Debeh advocated for school-based mental health programs, trained counselors, and expanded community support networks to reduce stigma and ensure early intervention.

GASD Executive Director James Koryor issued a formal statement on June 26, urging the Government of Liberia to declare substance abuse a public health emergency and to develop a National Drug Prevention Strategy rooted in evidence, community engagement, and cultural relevance.

"Prevention must start in our schools, churches, mosques, and communities," Koryor declared. "We call for real investment in treatment centers, mental health services, and long-term rehabilitation. Liberia must shift from punitive drug policies to those based on public health and human dignity."

GASD, find it deeply concerning that the Government of Liberia has failed to treat drug abuse as a national public health emergency. A fragmented approach, combined with the lack of a clear national rehabilitation strategy, continues to endanger the lives and futures of thousands of vulnerable citizens. Koryor noted.

He called for legislative reform to protect the rights of drug users, end criminalization, and prioritize access to education, housing, employment, and social services. “The time to act is now,” Koryor emphasized, “before another generation is lost.”

The event concluded with the signing of a Joint Youth Resolution by participants, reinforcing their commitment and calling on the Government of Liberia to treat substance abuse as a national emergency. The resolution:

• Expressed concern over the psychological, social, and economic impacts of drug use on Liberia’s youth;

• Recognized the urgent need for prevention policies that reflect Liberia’s youthful demographic;

• Acknowledged the rising substance use crisis as a threat to national development and security;

• Demanded that future responses be evidence-based, youth-inclusive, and rights-centered.

As the world marks the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Liberia’s youth have made their stance clear: the fight against drug abuse must be fought not only with laws but with compassion, education, and empowerment. The 3rd Annual Youth Policy Dialogue marks a critical turning point in ensuring that young voices drive the transformation of Liberia’s drug prevention landscape—today and for generations to come.

GASD Takes National Step Toward Drug-Free Schools…Launch Substance Abuse Free Environment (SAFE) School-based Intervention Program

A wave of color, passion, and purpose swept through Broad Street on Friday morning as over 200 students and youth leaders marched from Snapper Hill to the YMCA Headquarters at Crown Hill in a vibrant awareness parade. The event signaled the official launch of the Substance Abuse Free Environment (SAFE) School-Based Intervention Program, Liberia’s first national, comprehensive, and evidence-driven school-centered drug prevention strategy.

Organized by the Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD), the awareness parade kicked off the landmark event with banners, chants, and spirited student participation—an emphatic public call for safer, drug-free schools across Liberia. The launch not only drew students from participating schools but also welcomed key representatives from government ministries, civil society organizations, international NGOs, and the education sector.

Welcoming attendees to the official ceremony, Mr. Victor M. Paasewe, Program Officer at GASD, delivered a passionate statement highlighting the significance of the launch. “This is a historic step in our fight against the growing threat of drug abuse among our youth. The SAFE Program isn’t just a campaign—it is a commitment to protecting our children’s futures,” Paasewe said. He extended gratitude to the schools that have signed up for the initiative and underscored the importance of collective responsibility in sustaining the program.

Mr. Christopher Saah Bangaou, the SAFE Program Manager, provided an in-depth overview of the initiative, declaring the SAFE Program as a national movement tailored to Liberia’s unique realities. “This program is not just about awareness—it is about action, sustainability, and long-term transformation,” he noted.

Mr. Christopher Saah Bangaou, SAFE Program Manager

Bangaou elaborated that the SAFE Program is designed to publicly unveil Liberia’s first coordinated national rollout plan for school-centered drug prevention. He emphasized that the program showcases a well-defined strategy with clear goals, objectives, and measurable impact, while serving as a catalyst to foster collaboration and commitment from educational authorities, health institutions, youth organizations, and civil society actors across the country.

He further explained that the launch highlights the urgent need to confront youth substance abuse through structured, school-based interventions. The SAFE Program, he noted, addresses Liberia’s growing exposure to drug-related risks—particularly among young people—by introducing an institutionalized response within the school system. Unlike short-term awareness efforts, SAFE offers a research-driven, sustainable model rooted in Liberia’s context that builds resilience among students and seeks to shift school culture over time.

The program features an evidence-based prevention curriculum that is both age-appropriate and culturally relevant, focusing on life skills, decision-making, and drug resistance education. It also includes youth leadership development through the training of student leaders as SAFE Ambassadors who will spearhead peer education and outreach efforts. Furthermore, each school participating in the program will establish a Prevention Leadership Action Team (PLAT), made up of school staff, students, parents, and community stakeholders, to guide and support implementation. Baseline school surveys will be conducted to understand patterns of substance use among students and to help shape tailored interventions. Finally, the program introduces a standardized model school policy framework, enabling institutions to adopt consistent drug prevention policies in line with national education goals and global best practices.

Serving as the event’s Guest Speaker, Madam Joyce Kilikpo, Executive Director of the Public Health Initiative Liberia (PHIL), captivated the students with a motivating address. She emphasized the importance of staying drug-free and committed to education. “Your dreams are valid, your future is bright, but only if you protect yourselves from the dangers of drugs,” Kilikpo said, calling on students to become advocates for positive change in their schools and communities. She lauded GASD for pioneering an initiative that centers young people in the national prevention conversation.

Madam Joyce Kilikpo, Executive Director of the Public Health Initiative Liberia (PHIL),

She further emphasized that tackling drug abuse through early school engagement is one of the most effective strategies. “Prevention is most impactful when it starts young. Investing in school-based interventions means investing in a safer, healthier Liberia,” she said. Her remarks received loud applause from the audience, particularly the students who saw her as a relatable and inspiring figure.

Hon. Laraamand Nyonton, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Youth & Sports

Representing the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Deputy Minister for TVET Hon. Laraamand Nyonton pledged full ministerial support to the SAFE initiative. “This program aligns with the government’s youth development and public health priorities. We stand with GASD and all partners in ensuring our youth are not only educated but protected,” he said. He encouraged the students to embrace the opportunity presented by the SAFE Program, emphasizing the government’s ongoing commitment to tackling substance abuse at every level of society.

Mr. Varney T. Wilson, National Partnership Coordinator for SOS Liberia

Mr. Varney T. Wilson, National Partnership Coordinator for SOS Liberia, delivered a powerful message of encouragement. He praised GASD for taking bold steps in addressing youth drug use and advised students to become "ambassadors of change" in their communities. “You don’t need to wait to become a leader—you are leaders today. Embrace this program and lead the way,” he said. Wilson also highlighted the importance of mentorship and peer-led education, noting that students have the power to influence and transform their school environments.

Other prominent speakers included Mr. Rueben Bobby Logan, Executive Director of the Association of Progressive Youth of Liberia (APYL), who hailed the SAFE Program as a long-overdue intervention in Liberia’s school system. He emphasized the urgent need to equip young people with the tools to resist peer pressure and make informed decisions. “This program provides more than knowledge—it provides power. The power to say no, to make healthy choices, and to become role models,” Logan said.

Madam Mary W. Mulbah-Nyumah, President of the National Teacher’s Association of Liberia

Madam Mary W. Mulbah-Nyumah, President of the National Teacher’s Association of Liberia, applauded the inclusion of teachers in the SAFE Program framework. “Teachers are often the first line of defense in noticing behavioral changes in students. The SAFE Program gives us the resources and training to intervene meaningfully,” she remarked. She also stressed the need for ongoing support to ensure the program’s sustainability, calling on the Ministry of Education to formally integrate SAFE into the national school system.

Representatives from the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) and various civil society organizations (CSOs) also lent their voices in support of the initiative. LDEA officials praised the program’s emphasis on prevention rather than punishment, while CSO leaders committed to help raise awareness and monitor implementation. “The SAFE Program is a beacon of hope in our national response to drug abuse,” one speaker noted, calling it a "model that other nations in the region can replicate."

As the launch concluded, students signed pledges and committed to being champions of the SAFE Program in their respective schools. With support from key stakeholders and a solid implementation plan in place, the SAFE School-Based Intervention Program is poised to revolutionize how Liberia addresses youth substance abuse—one school at a time.

GASD, Partners Launches Community Participation Project with Two-Day Workshop to Tackle Drug Abuse in Liberia

The Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD), in partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Liberia Council of Churches Youth Desk, and other key stakeholders, officially launched the Community Participation Project to Strengthen Drug Demand Reduction Intervention in Liberia. This groundbreaking initiative commenced with a two-day capacity-building workshop for over 30 community-based organizations (CBOs) from Montserrado County’s 17 districts, reaffirming a unified commitment to combat substance abuse at the grassroots level.

The project is designed to empower community structures with evidence-based strategies to tackle the challenges of substance abuse. Its primary goals include enhancing awareness, building the capacity of local organizations to implement prevention programs, and creating pathways for rehabilitation. By focusing on the grassroots, the initiative underscores the vital role of community engagement in fostering resilience, promoting social cohesion, and addressing the long-term behavioral impacts of drug abuse.

The first day of the workshop featured a series of compelling presentations by subject-matter experts. Mr. Lawrence Yealue, Country Representative of Accountability Lab Liberia, opened the session with a presentation on Community Participation and Public Accountability in Drug Law Enforcement. He emphasized the importance of fostering transparency and accountability within communities to strengthen drug enforcement efforts.

Media expert and former Press Union Secretary General D. Kaihenneh Sengbeh followed with an insightful presentation on the Importance of Effective Public Awareness Campaigns. He highlighted how strategic communication can drive behavioral change and mobilize communities toward sustained action. Human rights defender Adama Kiatamba Dempster delivered a thought-provoking session on a Human Rights-Based Approach to Drug Law Enforcement, emphasizing the balance between justice and compassion in addressing substance use disorders.

Aaron F. Debah, the substance use disorders (SUD) focus person at the Ministry of Health, brought his expertise to the fore with a session on Evidence-Based Strategies for Drug Demand Reduction. He shared actionable approaches rooted in global best practices. GASD’s own SUD Program Manager, Christopher Saah Bangaou, concluded the day with a detailed presentation on Understanding Drugs, equipping participants with a foundational understanding of substance use issues.

Lawrence Yealue, Country Rep ALab

The second day of the workshop maintained momentum, delving into critical topics that further prepared participants for action. Reverend Gerald Coleman, Liberia’s Peace Ambassador, addressed The Impact of Substance Abuse on Peace and Security, drawing attention to the broader societal consequences of drug abuse. His session sparked meaningful conversations on how community resilience can mitigate risks to peace.

Jacob Flomo, ED IPER

Jacob Flomo, Executive Director of the Institute for Policy Evaluation & Research, presented on Effective

Adama Kiatamba Dempster* Secretary General Civil Society Human Rights Advocacy Platform of Liberia

Data Collection Techniques and Survey Design, empowering participants with tools to gather and analyze information critical for informed decision-making. Joseph Cheayan, Executive Director of IDAD, rounded out the workshop with an engaging session on Strategic Policy Advocacy for Effective Drug Law Implementation, underscoring the importance of collective advocacy to influence policy reforms.

A key highlight of the workshop was the presentation and popularization of The Declaration of Oviedo, an international framework that promotes evidence-based strategies for substance abuse prevention. The declaration’s principles resonated deeply with participants, further galvanizing their commitment to address the drug abuse crisis with a unified and strategic approach.

Grassroots Empowerment for Lasting Impact.

This two-day workshop marked a significant milestone in Liberia’s efforts to combat substance abuse. The diversity and commitment of participants—representing over 30 organizations from Montserrado—demonstrated the inclusive nature of this initiative. Each session equipped attendees with practical skills and knowledge, preparing them to serve as catalysts for change within their communities.

The Community Participation Project aligns with GASD’s mission to address substance abuse through community-driven solutions. By focusing on capacity building, public awareness, and evidence-based practices, the project is setting the stage for sustainable interventions that address both the immediate and long-term impacts of substance abuse.

GASD extends its deepest gratitude to the facilitators for their expertise and to the participants for their active engagement. Their collaborative efforts have laid a strong foundation for implementing the project effectively. The dedication of all involved underscores the potential for collective action to create safer and healthier communities.

As the Community Participation Project moves forward, GASD remains committed to fostering partnerships, mobilizing resources, and supporting communities in their fight against substance abuse. This initiative represents a critical step toward achieving a drug-free Liberia, where individuals and communities can thrive.

The successful launch and workshop have set the tone for impactful change. GASD calls on government agencies, civil society organizations, and community leaders to join hands in this shared mission. Together, we can create environments that protect vulnerable populations, promote recovery, and build a brighter future for Liberia.