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.

"Empty Promises: Unity Party Government Fails to Tackle Substance Abuse Crisis as Youths Suffer" Says GASD...

Monrovia— James Koryor, Executive Director of the Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD), has voiced strong criticism against the Unity Party Government for its failure to adequately address substance abuse as a national public health emergency. In an exclusive interview, Koryor expressed deep concern over the government's fragmented approach to this pressing issue, highlighting the unfulfilled promises made by the President, H.E. Joseph N. Boakai during his first State of the Nation Address in January this year.

In his address, the President acknowledged the growing substance abuse problem in Liberia and declared it a national public health emergency. Yet, more than seven months later, little has been done to combat the scourge, Koryor argues. "The President campaigned on a platform of addressing the drug crisis, particularly among the youth, but we have not seen any tangible progress. This administration's inaction is not just a broken promise, it's a betrayal to the disadvantaged youths who are most affected," Koryor stated.

The GASD Executive Director also criticized the disjointed efforts in tackling the substance abuse problem, pointing to the lack of a comprehensive national strategy. "What we are seeing is a fragmented and uncoordinated response from various agencies. There’s no consolidated approach, and this is made worse by inadequate support through budgetary allocation in the national budget. Youth are left to suffer, and this is a complete disservice to the very people the government promised to protect," Koryor added.

Koryor was particularly critical of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), calling it ineffective in addressing the escalating drug crisis. He emphasized that the appointment of former officials, who have not brought any new ideas to the table, has further hampered efforts. "The LDEA has remained largely ineffective, and the government’s insistence on recycling old officials who lack the innovative strategies needed to combat drug trafficking and abuse shows a lack of seriousness in dealing with this national crisis," he said.

Despite these setbacks, GASD is determined to act. Koryor announced that the organization is planning a series of advocacy activities and capacity-building initiatives to address the substance abuse crisis. "We are mobilizing civil society organizations and communities to push for real solutions. One of our primary goals is to petition the Legislature for the establishment of a specialized, dedicated institution that will focus solely on substance abuse prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation," he revealed.

Koryor also highlighted GASD’s concern about the lack of transparency and accountability from the government regarding the President’s promise. "It has been over nine months since the declaration, and we are concerned about the absence of a clear roadmap or visible progress in the implementation of this critical initiative," he noted. GASD has called for urgent information on the status of the inter-ministerial task force chaired by the Ministry of Health, which was established to combat substance abuse. The organization also seeks to understand the challenges that may have impeded the implementation of the initiative.

Koryor stressed the need for civil society organizations (CSOs) to be integrated into the process and for their roles to be clearly defined. "We want to know how CSOs are being integrated into this process and what specific roles they are expected to play. If there is an existing implementation plan, we ask that the government share it so that we can better understand the framework and contribute effectively," Koryor urged.

In closing, Koryor called for mechanisms to track the implementation of the government's initiatives to ensure accountability and transparency. "This matter is too important to be neglected. The government must establish clear tracking mechanisms for their substance abuse intervention programs. Our organization, along with other CSOs, is ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Health in monitoring and evaluating the progress of these initiatives," he said.

GASD remains committed to working with the government and civil society partners to address this national crisis with the urgency and commitment it demands. However, Koryor’s message was clear: "The time for talk is over. We need action now, and we will not rest until the government fulfills its promise to tackle this crisis head-on."

Call for Application: Resource Partners for the Community Participation Project to Strengthen Drug Demand Reduction Intervention in Liberia

The Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD) is seeking applications from registered community-based and youth-led organizations in Montserrado County to serve as Resource Partners for the implementation of the Community Participation Project to Strengthen Drug Demand Reduction Intervention in Liberia. APPLY HERE

Project Overview

The overall goal of the Community Participation Project to Strengthen Drug Demand Reduction Intervention in Liberia is to empower communities through active involvement and collaboration to effectively reduce drug demand and mitigate the impact of substance abuse. This initiative aims to enhance community resilience by promoting awareness, prevention, and education programs, fostering a supportive environment for individuals and families affected by drug use, and facilitating access to rehabilitation and recovery services. By leveraging local resources and strengthening community networks, the project seeks to create sustainable, community-driven strategies that address the root causes of drug demand and contribute to long-term public health and safety in Liberia.

Resource Partners’ Role

Selected Resource Partners will play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the project within their communities. As a Resource Partner, your organization will:

• Implement Project Activities: Carry out awareness, prevention, and education programs tailored to your community's specific needs.

• Promote Community Involvement: Engage community members in project activities to foster a supportive environment for individuals and families affected by drug use.

• Facilitate Access to Services: Help connect individuals with rehabilitation and recovery services to aid in their recovery process.

• Strengthen Community Networks: Collaborate with local stakeholders to build a robust network that supports drug demand reduction efforts.

• Receive Capacity Building: Participate in training and capacity-building activities to enhance your technical skills and project implementation capabilities.

Selection Criteria

GASD will select two organizations from each of the 17 electoral districts in Montserrado County for the first phase of the project. Applicants must:

• Be a registered community-based or youth-led organization.

• Demonstrate a commitment to reducing drug demand and supporting affected individuals and families.

• Have a proven track record of engaging in community-based initiatives.

• Show the capacity to effectively implement project activities and manage resources.

Application Process

Interested organizations must submit the following documents:

1. Completed Application Form: Available for download HERE

2. Organizational Profile: Including mission, vision, and past project experience.

3. Supporting Documents: Registration certificate, proof of past project reports, and any other relevant documentation.

Submission Details

• Deadline for Submission: July 31, 2024, at 5:00 PM

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: July 31, 2024

• Notification of Selection: August 15, 2024

• Project Commencement: September 1, 2024

Join us in this critical effort to strengthen drug demand reduction interventions and build healthier, more resilient communities in Liberia. Together, we can make a lasting impact.