By Precious D. Freeman
The Deputy Managing Director for Administration at the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), Victor Kpaiseh, has raised alarm over Liberia’s growing struggle with drug and substance abuse, particularly among its youth.
Speaking at a press conference y in Monrovia, Mr. Kpaiseh described the drug crisis as a grave threat to Liberia’s national development.
He emphasized that the prevalence of narcotics among young people undermines their potential and weakens the country’s human resource base.
The FDA official appealed to all Liberians, regardless of political affiliation, to join hands in the fight against the scourge. “We must put politics aside and work together to protect our youth from the dangers of substance abuse,” he said, calling for a united front in tackling the problem.
Kpaiseh commended the Liberian government for its recent crackdown on the importation of illegal drugs.
He asserted that these efforts, if maintained and supported, would lead to positive changes in the lives of young Liberians.
“If the government achieves its quest to stop the importation of illegal drugs, it will contribute to the transformation of young people,” he added.
In addition to government efforts, Mr. Kpaiseh appealed to development partners, private sector investors, and community leaders to play active roles in youth empowerment initiatives.
He emphasized that progress requires collaboration across all sectors. “We all have a role to play in shaping a brighter future for Liberia,” he noted.
His comments come at a time when the country is experiencing increased calls for inclusive and sustainable development, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Earlier in his address, Mr. Kpaiseh reaffirmed the Liberian government’s dedication to equipping women and youth with skills in agriculture and vocational training.
He highlighted the importance of these sectors in boosting job creation and economic resilience.
“The empowerment of women and youth is a national priority,” he stated. “Through skills development and investment in their talents, we can move Liberia toward sustainable growth and progress.”
In a bid to further demonstrate his commitment to youth and cultural development, Mr. Kpaiseh announced plans to construct a modern building for musicians in Nimba County.
The initiative aims to provide both physical infrastructure and economic opportunities for the local arts community.
He said the groundbreaking ceremony for the facility will take place on June 21, 2025.
According to him, the center will promote the artistic expressions of musicians particularly women who perform Gospel and traditional Mano music.
“When the project is completed, some of the women of Nimba who produce both Gospel music and Mano music will be empowered as well,” Kpaiseh revealed. “This center will be a hub for creativity, culture, and income generation.”
The proposed facility will not only serve as a performance venue, but also double as a training center for young artists in the region.
Mr. Kpaiseh noted that the project is part of a broader national strategy to provide safe, creative, and engaging environments for youth.
He stressed the importance of integrating the arts into national development conversations, pointing out that cultural expression can be a powerful tool for economic empowerment and social cohesion.
Mr. Kpaiseh’s announcement has generated excitement among cultural leaders in Nimba County, who say the project could be a game-changer for aspiring musicians and a catalyst for local economic activity.
