(Monrovia, Liberia, March 4, 2025)– The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Oum El Nour, has commenced a five-day training session of twenty (20) Substance Use Disorder (SUD) staff to strengthen mental health services in the country. The training is being conducted by the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Unit, with support from international partners. During the opening session, Mrs. Famatta W. Innis, Deputy Director of the Mental Health Unit, welcomed participants, emphasizing the importance of the training as a key component of President Joseph Boakai’s agenda.

She noted that despite financial constraints, the Ministry, under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, has made efforts to secure funding to launch the program. “This training is crucial as it prepares service providers to handle SUD treatment effectively. You have been carefully selected to be part of this initiative, and we expect you to give your best,” Mrs. Innis stated. She extended appreciation to Oum El Nour for providing outpatient and inpatient treatment facilities in Monrovia and Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. The training includes sessions on treatment protocols, service provider responsibilities, and the Therapeutic Community Model, which emphasizes structured rehabilitation through medical care, psychological counseling, group therapy, and vocational training. Participants are also receiving guidance on family involvement, community outreach, and post-rehabilitation integration.

Paul Chalach, Coordinator of the Prevention Center, led the first session, introducing participants to the mission and vision of Mother of Light – Oum El Nour. He highlighted the three pillars of rehabilitation—individual, team, and family—and stressed the importance of holistic approaches in addressing substance abuse. As Liberia continues to battle substance use challenges, this initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening the country’s mental health and addiction recovery systems. The Ministry of Health encourages all stakeholders to support and uphold the newly established treatment protocols to ensure sustainable success in combating addiction.