Liberia: ULAA Launches National Campaign: “Say No to Drugs in Liberia”

MONROVIA – The Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA) has consistently called upon successive Governments of Liberia to strengthen efforts to stop the influx of illegal drugs into the country. Despite these repeated appeals, the drug crisis has continued to worsen, posing a serious threat to Liberia’s future.

According to ULAA, for more than fifteen years, Liberia has faced a growing drug epidemic without a comprehensive and sustainable national response.

Around the world, illegal drugs have destroyed the lives of countless young people, torn families apart, fueled crime, and weakened communities. Liberia must not become another victim of this devastating crisis.

‘‘Liberia is a nation built on hope, resilience, dignity  and opportunity. We cannot allow criminals and international drug traffickers to undermine our future by turning our country into a hub for the distribution and transit of cocaine and other illegal narcotics.

Our nation has already endured the painful consequences of civil conflict.

The unchecked spread of illegal drugs could bring another tragedy upon our people, particularly our youth, whose future is vital to Liberia’s development. Anyone who uses public office, influence, or authority to facilitate the trafficking of illegal drugs for personal gain must be thoroughly investigated and held accountable under the full weight of the law,’’ ULAA pointed out.

ULAA respectfully called on  President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and his administration to intensify the fight against illegal drugs by strengthening border security, enhancing law enforcement, improving intelligence-sharing, and ensuring that traffickers and their collaborators are brought to justice.

‘‘We recognize and appreciate the positive steps the administration has taken toward Liberia’s development and encourage continued commitment to protecting the nation’s security and future. Liberia has long been recognized as a peaceful and welcoming nation that has opened its doors to those seeking safety and opportunity. Today, however, the growing presence of illegal drugs threatens the very fabric of our society. No nation can prosper when addiction, crime, and hopelessness are allowed to flourish,’’ ULAA stated.

ULAA said the fight against illegal drugs is not the responsibility of government alone, stressing ‘‘It requires the collective efforts of every Liberian. Families, communities, schools, religious institutions, youth organizations, civil society, traditional leaders, and government agencies must work together to educate, prevent, and combat drug abuse. By standing united, we can protect our children, strengthen our communities, and preserve the future of our beloved nation.’’

As part of this commitment,  ULAA disclosed that its Women Empowerment Committee will travel to Liberia later this year to conduct nationwide public awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities about the dangers of drug abuse, promoting prevention  and supporting individuals and families affected by addiction, adding ‘‘together, we can build a healthier, safer, stronger, and drug-free Liberia.’’