Monrovia – The Liberia Adventist Professionals Network has launched a major Drug Abuse and Mental Health Awareness Campaign aimed at educating young people about the dangers of substance abuse and empowering students to adopt drug-free lifestyles.
The initiative, which begins in Montserrado County, will first target schools in Monrovia, where about 25 junior and senior high schools are expected to participate in a three-day awareness event scheduled for March 12–14, 2026.
Officials of the organization are also urging the Liberian government to strengthen security measures at school entrances to curb the inflow of drugs into high schools.
They further recommended that the Drug Enforcement Agency of Liberia and the Ministry of Health conduct surprise inspections and drug testing in schools to help identify distributors targeting students and to intervene early for youths who may be struggling with substance abuse.
Raising Awareness Among Youth
Speaking during a live interview, officials of the network, including Miatta Jarry and Wilmot Paye, called on the public to support the campaign and attend the opening activities.
The awareness campaign will be held under the theme: “Say No to Drugs and Take Back Your Destiny.”
According to the organizers, the initiative is being conducted in partnership with Say No to Drugs Campaigners Against Drug Abuse, Sherah Young Women Initiative, Global Corps Mission, and other community partners.
“We need your support to bring students from schools across Central Monrovia to this important event,” Mrs. Jarry said.
Mr. Paye explained that the program is designed to promote early intervention and education about substance abuse.
“Our organization aims to empower young Liberians, particularly junior and senior high school students, with the knowledge needed to avoid drugs and make healthy life choices,” he said.
Event Details
On March 12 and 13, the event will be held at the SDA Chruch on Camp Johnson Road, Monrovia from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on March 14 at the BYC Football Field.
Organizers expect about 5,000 participants, including students, teachers, parents, and community leaders.
Key activities during the campaign will include expert symposiums on drug abuse and prevention, mental health awareness sessions, drug testing and data collection, and training of trainers to expand awareness programs in schools.
Expanding Beyond Monrovia
Following the launch in Central Monrovia, the organization hopes to extend the campaign to Paynesville, Gardnersville, and Bushrod Island, with plans to eventually expand the initiative to rural counties across Liberia.
Organizers say the expansion will depend largely on support from the government and development partners.
Growing Drug Crisis
Liberia has been grappling with an increase in drug abuse, particularly among young people. Substances such as narcotics, the synthetic drug “kush,” and the misuse of Tramadol have become widespread concerns in communities and schools.
The government has previously taken steps to restrict the over-the-counter sale of Tramadol as part of efforts to address the growing crisis.
The Liberia Adventist Professionals Network is also urging parents and community leaders to join the campaign to protect young people from the dangers of substance abuse and help create a healthier future for Liberia’s youth.
