Col. Abraham Kromah, the suspended Director of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), recently celebrated his birthday by engaging with drug-addicted youth in Monrovia, Liberia, emphasizing the need for compassion over confrontation. During this event on October 25, 2024, Kromah reiterated his commitment to tackling drug addiction in Liberia and urged parents to foster loving relationships with their children rather than resorting to hostility. He expressed a clear understanding of the gravity of drug issues faced by the nation, attributing the rampant drug problem primarily to the activities of traffickers. Kromah called for a united effort among the public and the international community to eradicate drug use and support the recovery of victims.
In his address, Kromah highlighted the urgent need to change societal attitudes toward drug addicts by advocating for treatment rather than punishment. He asserted that confrontational approaches only exacerbate the problem, pushing vulnerable youth further into drug use. Instead, he called upon families and communities to provide support and encouragement, enabling drug-affected individuals to regain control of their lives. On a poignant visit to the Center Street Cemetery in Monrovia, where numerous addicts find temporary refuge, he sought to deliver that message directly, engaging with those living in the area and fostering discussions around hope, recovery, and reintegration into society.
As part of his birthday celebrations, Kromah took the opportunity to dine with the young individuals living in the cemetery, reinforcing his commitment to their cause. He encouraged them to consider vocational training and other constructive activities as promising pathways away from addiction. He noted the detrimental physical and mental health effects of prolonged drug use and urged the youth to recognize the importance of abandoning narcotic substances for a healthier, more productive future. This gathering not only served to humanize the issue of drug addiction but also provided a platform for Kromah to communicate his belief in the potential for change among these young individuals.
Moreover, Kromah utilized this occasion to push for increased budgetary support for the LDEA, arguing that enhanced resources are essential for effectively combating drug trafficking in Liberia. He underscored that the agency requires adequate funding to implement programs that can aid in prevention and rehabilitation efforts rather than merely punitive measures. His call to action is directed to the government and other stakeholders, seeking a collaborative approach to tackle the multifaceted issues related to drug use in Liberia and invest in the country’s future.
A member of the drug-affected youth, Princess David, publicly expressed gratitude towards Kromah for his unwavering support and compassion. She contrasted his kindness with the indifference she and her peers often face from society, noting that Kromah remains a consistent presence in their lives, offering food and care. David highlighted the urgent need for government funding to support rehabilitation efforts, emphasizing that the physical abuse they encounter and the stigma associated with drug addiction require immediate governmental intervention and resources aimed at their recovery.
Kromah’s commitment to assisting drug-addicted youths, coupled with his appeals for societal and governmental support, reflects a growing recognition of the importance of a compassionate approach towards addiction. His interactions and advocacy underscore the need for a dedicated response to the drug crisis in Liberia, emphasizing rehabilitation over criminalization, and fostering a supportive environment for those affected. As his birthday event transitioned into a wider call for action, it painted a picture of hope for recovery and change, underlining the critical role of community and familial support in addressing the complex issue of drug addiction in Liberia.
