In a significant step towards combating substance abuse in Liberia, the Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Federation of Liberian Youth, convened a National Stakeholder Roundtable on Substance Abuse Prevention. This one-day event, held on June 20, 2024, brought together over fifty key stakeholders from various sectors across Liberia. The assembly included government officials, civil society organizations, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, including youth and students, united under the shared goal of strengthening Liberia's efforts to fight substance abuse and fostering a safer, healthier nation.
The roundtable was organized in commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed globally on June 26th. This day serves as a critical platform to address the worldwide challenges posed by drug abuse and illicit trafficking, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation and action towards a drug-free society. For Liberia, this observance provided an opportune moment to spotlight national efforts in drug prevention and align with global initiatives.
In 2024, Liberia leveraged this occasion to launch the 2024 Global Initiative on Drug Use Prevention, encapsulated in "The Declaration of Oviedo." This initiative highlights evidence-based strategies and collaborative efforts essential for preventing drug abuse, particularly tailored to address Liberia's unique challenges. The Declaration of Oviedo underscores the importance of a national drug prevention policy or law, emphasizing the need for comprehensive, coordinated actions.
Dr. Moses Ziah, representing the Ministry of Health, reaffirmed the Government of Liberia's commitment to tackling substance abuse. He highlighted various measures and initiatives undertaken by the government, notably the establishment of a multisectoral taskforce coordinated by the Ministry of Health. Despite these efforts, Dr. Ziah acknowledged ongoing challenges and stressed the crucial role of civil society in supporting the government and other stakeholders in the fight against drug abuse.
Hon. Thomas A. Goshua, II, Representative of District #5, Grand Bassa County, addressed the roundtable, highlighting legislative efforts to amend the drug law. He expressed frustration over the insufficient government funding allocated to address substance abuse, which has been declared a public health emergency. Hon. Goshua called for increased financial commitment to effectively tackle this pressing issue.
During a panel discussion, key figures including Mr. Joseph Quoi of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Rueben Bobby Logan, Focus Person-WANSCA, and Mr. Barton Dweh of the World Health Organization-Liberia, explored critical topics such as effective drug prevention strategies, policy development and implementation, and addressing the root causes of drug abuse in Liberia. Discussion points included socioeconomic factors, community and family dynamics, cultural influences, and the effectiveness of current government policies. The objective was to identify and discuss the fundamental causes of drug abuse in Liberia and propose holistic strategies targeting these root causes.
International participants included Dr. Wadih Maalouf, UNODC Global Coordinator for Prevention, who emphasized the need for investment in prevention, as highlighted in this year's global theme for World Drug Day. Mr. Oriol Esculies, Coordinator for the Global Initiative on Drug Use Prevention, presented the Declaration of Oviedo and commended Liberia, particularly GASD, for being one of the first organizations in West Africa to present the Declaration to stakeholders, including the government.
James Koryor, Executive Director of GASD, stressed the importance of government investment in prevention, stating that the evidence is clear. He urged that the national budget should address the current drug situation rather than relying on partner support. Koryor called for all actors to join the fight against substance abuse in Liberia, with a particular focus on prevention.
Additional speakers included Abdullah O. Bility, Vice President of the Federation of Liberian Youth, Mrs. Famatta Williams-Innis, Assistant Director, Mental Health Unit, Ministry of Health, Mr. McCarthy Teayah, National Program Manager, GASD, and representatives from local civil society organizations. The event marked a pivotal moment in Liberia's ongoing efforts to combat substance abuse, fostering collaboration and commitment among all stakeholders to create a drug-free society. The event was moderated by Mr. Samuel James Kpartor, Program Manager of the Federation of Liberian Youth-FLY.
The National Stakeholder Roundtable on Substance Abuse Prevention in Liberia not only underscored the urgency of addressing substance abuse but also set the stage for sustained, coordinated efforts to tackle this critical issue. With the presentation of the Declaration of Oviedo, Liberia reaffirmed its dedication to preventing drug abuse and contributing to a healthier, safer future for all its citizens.
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