The Township of Congo Town in Monrovia, Liberia, has initiated a comprehensive anti-drug awareness campaign targeting schools and communities to combat the escalating problem of drug abuse among youth. Launched on April 26, 2025, at the Jones Christian Academy School, the campaign, themed “Reducing New Users of Illicit Drugs Through School and Community Engagement,” aims to educate residents and provide strategies for addressing the growing drug menace in the area. The event was attended by various government officials, community leaders, school administrators, students, and representatives from organizations such as the National Association of Social Workers of Liberia (NASOWL), highlighting the collaborative approach to tackling this issue. The campaign’s launch follows Commissioner Edward H. Lahai’s observation of a disturbing increase in drug-related harm among young people since assuming office in July 2024.
Commissioner Lahai, in his keynote address, painted a stark picture of the devastating impact of drug abuse on the youth, describing young boys ravaged by addiction, their images circulating on social media as a grim reminder of the crisis. He emphasized that these images should serve as a wake-up call, urging the community to take responsibility for addressing the problem. Lahai highlighted the vulnerability of young people to drug use due to peer pressure and lack of information, underscoring the need for accurate information, mentorship, and community support. Among his initial actions in office was the discontinuation of “Super Friday” events, gatherings of students often criticized as fostering risky behaviors, including drug use.
The anti-drug campaign aims to engage with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), to extend its reach into schools, neighborhoods, and identified hotspots. Commissioner Lahai also announced plans for a quarterly rehabilitation initiative to offer support and second chances to affected youth. He appealed to attendees to become ambassadors for the cause, spreading awareness and promoting education within their communities. The campaign is slated to continue throughout the year, with various activities planned for young people, parents, and educators.
Personal testimonies from former drug users, Anthony Nimely and Paul Boayue, added a poignant dimension to the launch event. They shared their harrowing experiences with addiction, detailing the years lost and the devastating consequences. Nimely, however, leveled accusations against the LDEA, alleging complicity of some officers with drug distributors, claiming that dealers often evade arrest through bribes while users bear the brunt of law enforcement actions. They characterized their time spent using drugs as wasteful and meaningless, further strengthening the campaign’s message.
Community members, including students, school administrators, and leaders, welcomed the campaign, expressing concerns about the pervasive drug problem in their communities. They highlighted the infrequent presence of the LDEA, requesting regular patrols to deter drug activity. They believe a consistent security presence could significantly reduce drug use by creating an environment of fear for both dealers and users. Their pleas reflect the community’s desire for more proactive and visible law enforcement efforts in combating the drug crisis.
Government officials and representatives from various organizations, including Representatives Cooper and Enders, acknowledged the escalating drug problem in Congo Town. They cautioned students against any experimentation with drugs, emphasizing the importance of prevention. They highlighted the vulnerability of youth to substance abuse, particularly in urban areas like Congo Town where drugs are readily accessible. They pointed to the national emergency declaration on drug abuse but acknowledged the lack of sufficient resources and facilities to effectively address the crisis. Their collective message emphasized the shared responsibility of the government, law enforcement, and the community in combating drug abuse. The launch event, which commenced with a march from the GSA Road Junction, culminated in the formal ceremony at the Jones Christian Academy School, symbolizes the community’s commitment to addressing the growing drug menace.
