(Monrovia, December 16, 2024) – The Ministry of Health (MOH), through its Mental Health Unit, in collaboration with the Liberia Alcohol Policy Alliance, held the First National Conference on Alcohol Policy and Strategy Promotion. The conference, themed “Strengthening Collaboration for Alcohol Control: Advancing Knowledge and Action on Alcohol Policy Implementation in Liberia,” brought together key stakeholders to address the growing issue of alcohol-related harm in Liberia.
The conference aimed to share the latest research and evidence-based strategies proven to reduce alcohol-related harm globally, strengthen partnerships among stakeholders to ensure cohesive efforts in policy implementation and enforcement, and discuss practical steps and innovative solutions to address challenges while ensuring sustainability and long-term impact. Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Bakary Sonko, National Coordinator of the Africa CDC Liberia, emphasized the profound consequences of harmful alcohol consumption and the urgent need for collective action. “As we know, alcohol consumption, while often seen as a social norm, carries profound risks to the health and safety of individuals, families, and communities. We face challenges and opportunities to address these risks as a country, but we cannot do it alone. Collaboration and partnership will be the keys to success,” Dr. Sonko stated. He raised critical action points including intergovernmental collaboration, engagement with civil society, and private sector responsibility. Dr. Sonko further called for the implementation of evidence-based strategies to mitigate alcohol-related harm: “The World Health Organization’s Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol urges countries to adopt proven strategies. Across Africa, we face unique challenges—cultural norms, alcohol availability, and marketing practices—but collaboration with regional and global partners will help us learn from best practices to guide our efforts.”
Speaking earlier, the Deputy Director of the Mental Health Unit, Mrs. Famatta W. Innis cited the World Health Organization’s 2018 report, which revealed that alcohol consumption contributes to 3 million deaths annually worldwide and significantly affects public health. “According to the latest WHO global estimates, 283 million people aged 15 years and older—including 237 million men and 46 million women—live with alcohol use disorders (AUD), representing 5.1% of the global adult population. Alcohol is the leading risk factor for premature mortality and disability among individuals aged 15 to 49, accounting for 10% of all deaths in this age group,” she said. She further noted the link between alcohol use and over 200 diseases and health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and weakened immune systems, which make individuals more susceptible to infections such as Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. Mrs. Innis, also highlighted progress in Liberia’s efforts to address alcohol-related harm: “Liberia’s Alcohol Policy was initiated in 2022, officially launched, and distributed in 2023. This conference marks a significant step toward its implementation and strengthening.” The First National Conference on Alcohol Policy underscored the importance of unified action among government, civil society, and private sector stakeholders to address alcohol-related issues and promote healthier, more sustainable communities in Liberia.