By Bill W. Cooper
The Multisector Committee Against Drugs and Substance Abuse will on today, February 19, 2024, conduct its first thorough assessment in the country.
The assessment is aimed at identifying rehabilitation sites for at-risk youth and evaluating the current state of drugs and substance abuse in Liberia.
The initiative also seeks to foster collaborative partnerships among law enforcement, healthcare, education, social services, donors, and other relevant sectors to tackle this complex issue.
The decision followed after President Joseph Boakai declared drugs and substance abuse a health emergency, stated during his State of The Nation Address on January 29, 2024.
According to the President, his decision is in response to the pressing public health issue of drugs and other narcotic substances that are fast destroying the country’s youths.
President Boakai then set-up a multisectoral steering committee comprising of the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.
Others are the Ministry of Education, Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, to address the urgent need for coordinated action.
Since the pronouncement by the President, the committee chaired by Health Minister, Louise M. Kpoto, held its first meeting at her Health Ministry office over the weekend, marking a significant step forward.
According to a Health Ministry release, the committee, under the leadership of Kpoto, has also established a secretariat charged with developing comprehensive strategies and a roadmap to combat drugs and substance abuse within a three-year timeframe.
This includes developing strategies and a roadmap and assigning the duties and responsibilities of each participating ministry and agency.
The release noted that 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.
It added, “Through concerted efforts and proactive measures, the government aims to safeguard our communities and create a safer, healthier future for all.”
