(Monrovia, January 16, 2024) – The Ministry of Health (MOH), has launched a three-day workshop in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Section (INL). The workshop, which will be hosted at Cape Hotel from January 15 to 17, focuses on strengthening drug information systems and enhancing treatment services for substance use disorders across Liberia. This strategic workshop is designed to revitalize drug monitoring systems, evaluate the capacity of certified treatment facilities, and map the existing services for individuals with substance use disorders. Participants are developing strategic plans to measure the demand for treatment and monitor trends in drug use within communities. In his opening remarks, Dr. Moses Ziah II, Director of the Mental Health Unit, welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of collective efforts in combating substance abuse. “Your presence reflects your dedication to addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges in Liberia. Together, we can make meaningful progress in this fight,” Dr. Ziah stated. He reiterated the government’s commitment, noting the President’s declaration of drug and substance abuse as a national health issue.
Dr. Ziah further highlighted the established multi-sectoral committee on drug and substance abuse, which is chaired by the Ministry of Health and co-chaired by the Ministry of Justice. The committee includes key government agencies such as the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, among others. The Mental Health Director praised the efforts of international partners, particularly UNODC and WHO, for their invaluable support and collaboration in advancing the country’s response to substance use disorders. Addressing the workshop, Mr. Anselma Simeon Sanyo, UNODC Program Officer, called for the global standards for drug use disorder treatment to be introduced in 2022. “These tools are essential for enhancing national and local systems, ensuring quality treatment for those affected by substance use disorders. This workshop is a significant step toward building a robust and inclusive treatment system in Liberia,” he stated. The Ministry of Health extends its gratitude to all partners and stakeholders for their contributions to this critical initiative. Together, these efforts aim to create a resilient health system capable of addressing the challenges posed by drug and substance abuse, ensuring that no one is left behind.