GASD, LINSU Set to Launch Substance Abuse Free Environment (SAFE) School-Based Intervention Program... holds Strategic Partnership Meeting with MCSS

Earlier today, the Program Management Team of the Substance Abuse Free Environment (SAFE) School Based Intervention Program met with the Leadership of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS). Speaking at the Strategic partnership meeting, the Superintendent of the MCSS Hon. Isaac Saye-Lakpoh Zawolo welcome the team and expressed his organization interest in the partnership that is intended to see the SAFE Program been implemented across all MCSS Schools.

Mr. Zawolo welcomed the partnership and stressed that his institution will work with the SAFE Program implementers to have a successful implementation of the program across all MCSS schools focusing Junior and senior high schools.

Making a summary presentation, Christopher Saah Bangaou, SAFE Program Manager, inform the principals and executive of the MCSS that the SAFE Program is a pioneering initiative developed by the Global Action for Sustainable Development in partnership with the Liberia National Students Union aimed at addressing the critical issue of substance abuse among school-going children and young people in Liberia. As the first evidence-based drug prevention school-based intervention in the nation.

The SAFE Program Manager stressed that the SAFE is strategically designed to enhance drug prevention efforts across all schools in Liberia. Considering the program's potential impact, we are eager to explore the possibility of collaboration with the Monrovia Consolidated School System. We believe that your commitment to education aligns with our goals, and a partnership would significantly contribute to the success of the SAFE Program, Mr. Bangaou noted.

He further stated that the primary goal of the SAFE Program is to equip students with the skills necessary to develop, adopt, and sustain healthy attitudes and behaviors, fostering a drug-free society. The program focuses on three key strategies: School Policy, School Climate, and Prevention Curriculum. Tailored intervention activities will be informed by comprehensive data, including student-school survey data, archival data, and input from the Prevention Leadership Action Team.

Also speaking, the Deputy Secretary for Programs at the Liberia National Student Union, Alvin Fiaka stressed that partnering with the MCSS will have a significant impact on the program and overall the student population and highlighted the next steps with the engagement with the MCSS to have a successful launch of the program in the coming weeks.

Other members of the SAFE Team included, Mr. McCarthy Teayah, National Program Director of GASD and Presidential press Secretary of LINSU.

GASD Proposes Eight Comprehensive Policy Recommendations on Addressing Substance Abuse in Liberia

The Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD) commends President Joseph Boakai for his unwavering commitment to tackle substance abuse, declaring it a national public health emergency. GASD acknowledges the gravity of the situation and emphasizes the urgent need for a specialized and dedicated approach to combat drug abuse effectively and efficiently. However, to ensure the success of President Boakai's administration in this fight against substance abuse, GASD puts forth the following comprehensive policy recommendations:

1.    Reform of Liberia Drug Laws:

GASD underscores the urgent necessity for a thorough overhaul of Liberia's current drug laws. The existing legislation predominantly centers around law enforcement, thereby neglecting essential elements crucial to combating illegal drug trafficking and facilitating legal prosecution. GASD advocates for the implementation of a revised legal framework that effectively addresses these deficiencies, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to drug-related issues. This reformed law should place emphasis on inclusivity, prioritizing Treatment, Rehabilitation, Recovery, Integration, Prevention, and Drug Testing. By doing so, Liberia can establish a more robust and multifaceted foundation to tackle the complexities of drug-related challenges and foster a holistic approach to the issue.

2.  Support for LDEA Enforcement:

GASD emphasizes the critical importance of supporting the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) in its efforts to enforce drug laws. Recognizing the pivotal role played by LDEA in combating the illicit drug trade, GASD calls upon the government to allocate substantial resources to bolster the agency's capabilities. This support should be reflected in proportional budgetary allocations aimed at enhancing LDEA's capacity to respond effectively to the existing challenges in the realm of drug enforcement.

GASD acknowledges Liberia's vulnerability as a significant transit country for illicit narcotics, and considering this, recommends that the government directs its attention towards strengthening the overall law enforcement capacity. This involves not only financial support but also a strategic focus on improving border controls to curb the inflow and outflow of illegal substances. GASD advocates for a comprehensive approach, urging the government to actively engage in collaboration with international partners to create a united front against drug trafficking. By fostering partnerships and sharing intelligence, the effectiveness of drug enforcement efforts can be significantly enhanced.

3.    Addressing Core Social Issues:

Recognizing the far-reaching consequences of substance abuse, GASD highlights the urgent need to address the broader societal challenges linked to drug abuse. Failure to do so may result in increased criminal activities, unemployment, sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancy, and tuberculosis.

4.    Establishment of Drug Treatment Facilities:

GASD passionately promotes the expansion of support and resources dedicated to the creation of drug treatment facilities on a national scale. Recognizing the pervasive issue of substance abuse affecting thousands of individuals, GASD emphasizes the critical importance of accessible and well-equipped treatment centers. The objective is to address the diverse and pressing needs of those grappling with substance abuse by establishing comprehensive facilities that can effectively provide necessary interventions and support. This advocacy underscores the urgency of a widespread, systematic approach to curb the challenges posed by substance use disorders and foster a healthier, more resilient society.

5.    Sustainable Rehabilitation, Recovery and Re-Integration:

GASD calls for sustainable rehabilitation, recovery, and reintegration represents a comprehensive approach that extends beyond mere treatment. By aligning with principles of professionalism, human rights, public health, and evidence-based strategies, governments can develop robust programs that not only support individual recovery but contribute to the overall well-being of communities. This holistic perspective emphasizes the long-term sustainability and success of rehabilitation efforts, fostering resilience and integration for those on the journey to recovery.

6.    Comprehensive Drug Prevention Policies/Program:

GASD underscores the significance of advocating for evidence-based strategies in the fight against drug abuse. Emphasizing a holistic approach, GASD recommends the active involvement of key stakeholders such as families, schools, community-based organizations, and religious institutions in implementing effective prevention policies and programs. The goal is to create a synergistic and integrated approach that addresses the complex nature of substance abuse by fostering collaboration across various societal structures. GASD's approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, reflecting a commitment to ensuring the success and sustainability of drug prevention initiatives.

7.    Establishment of a Specialized and Dedicated Institution:

The establishment of a specialized and dedicated institution with a statutory mandate for managing and implementing Liberia's Drug Prevention, Treatment, Rehabilitation, Recovery, and Reintegration programs is crucial for addressing the complex and multifaceted challenges associated with substance abuse. Such an institution would serve as a centralized authority, providing a coordinated and comprehensive approach to combat drug-related issues. By having a clear statutory mandate, the institution can effectively design and implement evidence-based prevention strategies, facilitate accessible and quality treatment programs, oversee rehabilitation initiatives, and support the recovery and reintegration of individuals into society. This specialized institution would play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, ensuring a cohesive and targeted response to the country's drug-related concerns, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of individuals and the community at large.

8.    Collaborative Approach:

GASD advocates for a unified effort across all branches of government to effectively combat drug abuse in the country. GASD underscores the collective responsibility of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches in addressing this pressing issue. The executive is tasked with providing a comprehensive platform for initiatives, while the legislature is called upon to allocate the necessary finances to support anti-drug efforts. Additionally, the judiciary plays a crucial role in leading the prosecution of drug traffickers, ensuring that legal actions align with Liberian laws. By emphasizing a coordinated approach among these branches, GASD aims to foster an all-hands-on-deck strategy, recognizing that a united front is essential to successfully tackle the complex challenge of drug abuse in Liberia.

GASD-Liberia remains steadfast in its dedication as a non-profit organization with the expertise to contribute meaningfully to the government's efforts. The urgent collaboration of all stakeholders is imperative to address the multifaceted challenges posed by substance abuse and secure a healthier future for Liberia.

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GASD Ghetto Outreach & Advocacy Initiative Team Visits Point Four Community...

Earlier today, our team led by J Navarro Saykie Jr. visited a community in Point Four, Bushrod Island as part of our regular engagement under our Ghetto Outreach & Advocacy Initiative.

We use the occasion to gauge the at-risk youth views and expectations about the new government and what they are anticipating. Mr. Saykie encouraged the young people to always remain law abiding and commended them for their peaceful participation in the just ended elections.

He informs them about the program and how Global Action for Sustainable Development-GASD will continuously engage policymakers on their behalf for an improve living condition for them specifically rehabilitation programs.

The Ghetto Outreach & Advocacy Initiative is a dynamic program dedicated to addressing the complex challenges faced by individuals affected by substance use in marginalized communities. Focused on promoting drug demand reduction through sensitization and awareness, the initiative also takes a holistic approach by providing essential hygiene materials specifically tailored for female substance users.

At its core, the initiative advocates for progressive drug policies that prioritize treatment, rehabilitation, recovery, and successful reintegration into society. A unique feature of the program is its emphasis on amplifying the voices of substance users, providing them with a platform to articulate their concerns directly and influence policymakers towards effective and compassionate solutions.

Through a combination of education, advocacy, and empowerment, the Ghetto Outreach & Advocacy Initiative strives to create positive change and improve the lives of those impacted by substance use in underserved communities.