LIBERIA’S WOMEN AND activists sent a powerful message on the streets, donning black attire to decry the rampant drug menace that has gripped the nation. No doubt, this march against drugs is a clarion call to action, urging the government to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete steps to address this scourge. The women and activists marching against drugs are not just fighting for their rights; they’re fighting for the future of Liberia. The drug epidemic has far-reaching consequences, affecting families, communities, and the nation as a whole. It’s imperative that the government takes bold action to address this issue. The march serves as a reminder that the government’s campaign promises must be translated into tangible actions. The people of Liberia deserve a government that is committed to keeping its promises and working towards a brighter future for all.
AMONGST UNITY PARTY’S most ferocious propaganda unleashed against the then ruling Coalition for Democratic Change government during the 2023 electoral campaign was the rampancy of narcotic drugs and psychoactive substances, and their ruining toll on the nation, mainly its youth—something the party firmly tied to the CDC government’s alleged lackluster and patronizing approach. A huge chunk of the electorate appeared to have given credence to that propaganda. Nearly two years in office, the Unity Party’s “Kush must go” slogan of 2023 is seemingly buried into lethargy, and ‘Zombie’ and other dangerous drugs continue to blossom in the country as if the Boakai-UP administration has forgot its promise. With a major anti-drugs-and-substance-abuse rally, undertaken by a gamut of civil society groups calling out the apparent weakness of government, and to give the fight against the pandemic more public traction, the President, who amongst other things rode on the drug-related propaganda to acquire political power is now vowing “non-selective and relentless” fight.
THE LIBERIAN GOVERNMENT, particularly the Joseph Boakai administration, made promises to tackle the drug epidemic. However, it’s time for action, not just propaganda. The people demand more than lip service; they demand tangible results. And there are number to tangible, unrhetorical things that must be decisively done if the march by thousands of citizens in torrential rains on Thursday, August 7, 2025 will not be in vain.
AS THE GOVERNMENT moves forward, it’s essential to acknowledge the progress made so far and build upon it. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of drug abuse and trafficking. By working together, the government, civil society, and the people of Liberia can create a society that is free from the grip of drugs.
ONE CRUCIAL STEP would be to increase budgetary support to the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA). Adequate funding will enable the agency to effectively combat drug trafficking and abuse. Additionally, the government must prioritize the creation of more rehabilitation and detoxification centers. These facilities are essential for providing support and care to those struggling with addiction.
THE MARCH AGAINST drugs is a call to action, a reminder that collective efforts are necessary to combat this epidemic. Let’s work together to build a Liberia where citizens can live without the fear of drug abuse and trafficking. The time for action is now; the future of Liberia depends on it.
THE LIBERIA DRUGS Enforcement Agency (LDEA) can play a crucial role in addressing the drug epidemic by introducing evidence-based measures. Here are some potential policies LDEA could consider a number of things:
- Compulsory drug testing: Implementing mandatory drug testing for certain groups, such as government officials, drivers, or students, can help identify and address drug abuse.
- Evidence-based treatment programs: LDEA can collaborate with healthcare professionals to develop and implement evidence-based treatment programs for individuals struggling with addiction.
- Community-based initiatives: LDEA can engage with local communities to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and provide support for those affected.
- Policy reforms: LDEA can advocate for policy reforms that address the root causes of drug abuse, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and healthcare.
- Collaboration with other agencies: LDEA can work with other government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to develop a comprehensive approach to addressing the drug epidemic.
ORDINARY CITIZENS can play a vital role in addressing the drug epidemic by serving as whistleblowers and reporting suspicious activities to the authorities. This can help identify and disrupt drug trafficking networks, and prevent the spread of drug abuse in communities.
ADDITIONALLY, IT’S ESSENTIAL to eschew discrimination against survivors of drug addiction. People struggling with addiction deserve compassion, support, and access to treatment and rehabilitation services. By providing a non-judgmental and supportive environment, we can encourage individuals to seek help and work towards recovery.
SOME WAYS CITIZENS can contribute include reporting suspicious activities to the authorities; supporting community-based initiatives and programs that address drug abuse; volunteering at rehabilitation centers or support groups; educating themselves and others about the dangers of drug abuse, and also advocating for policies and programs that address the root causes of drug abuse
BY WORKING TOGETHER, citizens, government agencies, and community organizations can create a comprehensive approach to addressing the drug epidemic and supporting those affected by it. By introducing these measures, LDEA can demonstrate its commitment to addressing the drug epidemic and heeding the cry of the populace.