Monrovia, Liberia — The Presidential Multi-Sectoral Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse has ramped up its efforts to combat the nation’s drug crisis by engaging with key service providers and activating two emergency hotlines: 07773677740 and 0881950663. The move follows a high-level meeting on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, which brought together policymakers, service providers, and international partners to foster collaboration and strengthen the national response.
The gathering was a direct result of a two-day technical working session held by the committee’s Technical Working Group on August 18-19. During this session, a comprehensive strategic framework was developed to guide Liberia’s renewed battle against the drug epidemic. The framework focuses on improving treatment and referral pathways and exploring innovative interventions to address the escalating crisis.
Speaking at the meeting, Health Minister Dr. Louise Mapleh Kpoto emphasized the critical role of the private sector in supporting the government’s initiatives. “We acknowledge your contributions, and we are eager to work with you as a team to provide quality services and improved referral pathways for substance users,” she stated. Dr. Kpoto described the crisis as a “national emergency threatening the future of Liberia,” and she praised the collaboration with international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), as vital for scaling up the country’s response.
Dr. Olushayo Olu, the WHO Country Representative, commended President Joseph Boakai’s administration for making the fight against drug abuse a national priority. However, he also issued a stern warning, cautioning that inaction could have devastating consequences for the nation’s future. “If care is not taken immediately, the crisis could erode the very future of the nation,” Dr. Olu warned, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
The activation of the emergency hotlines is a significant step, providing immediate access to support and information for individuals and families affected by substance abuse. This new resource, managed by the committee, aims to be a crucial entry point for people seeking help, connecting them with the appropriate treatment and support services. The initiative highlights a shift toward a more coordinated and accessible approach to public health, recognizing that the crisis requires a unified effort from all sectors.
The multi-sectoral committee’s work is a testament to the government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of the crisis while providing immediate assistance. The engagement with service providers, coupled with the new hotlines, represents a multi-pronged strategy to tackle a problem that has deeply affected communities across Liberia. The committee will continue its work in the coming weeks, with a focus on implementing the strategic framework and ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned in the national response to this critical public health emergency.
