Civil Society Organization Launches Shadow Report On Implementation Of Global Alcohol Action Plan
The Liberia Civil Society Organization on Thursday launched its shadow report on the implementation of the framework for implementing the Global Alcohol Action plan 2022-2030.
The shadow report launched after a three-day intensive workshop which began on Tuesday August 19,2025 and ended on Thursday August 20,2025 the same of the launch.
Speaking during the launching, the special guest of honor Mr. Saudu Swaray said, the alcohol industry is a powerful one whose content has so many things which CSO will take one at time to resolve them.
Mr. Swaray emphasized that alcohol has health implications which the entire world is ignoring. He further that alcohol is easy to get people affected by taking in high quality alcohol drinks but cautioned that people should be careful to not be addicted.
“Be aware that alcohol causes infertility, violence, liver damage and risking the lives of many.” Mr. Swaray added.
He recommended that CSO and other rights to advocate for the government to discourage the use of alcohol, provide for affected alcohol victims and advocate for CSO to be capacitated to fight alcohol abuse among others.
Also speaking during the launch was Mr. Issah Ali, West African Alcohol Policy Alliance Secretriat and Ghana Alcohol Policy Alliance Vice President said, It is a privilege to be here for the official launch of Liberia’s Civil Society Shadow Report on the implementation of the Framework for implementing the Global Alcohol Action Plan 2022-2030 in the WHO African Region.
Mr. Ali stressed that Following WAAPA’s engagement with the WHO AFRO at the Regional Committee Meeting in Lome, Togo, where we called for the inclusion of alcohol control into its programs and agenda, we are encouraged that this materialized by the adoption of the Global Alcohol Action Plan into the African chapter.
“This launch is more than just a release of a document, but it represents an important moment for civil society in Liberia and across the region.”
He stated tat this shadow report provides an independent, evidence based perspective highlighting progress, gaps and opportunities in alcohol control policy implementation in Liberia and reinforces civil society’s responsibility to holding stakeholders accountable and to push for policies that protect the health and well-being of the general public.
He added, WAAPA’s role has been to provide technical and resource support to countries in the West African Region, including Liberia. This support has enabled LAPA to lead this process, ensuring that civil society voices are documented and linked to the regional and global advocacy efforts. We believe that sharing Liberia’s experience will strengthen the collective call for effective alcohol control across the region.
According to Mr. Ali, this report is a tool for action and it should inform legislation, advocacy and community engagement. WAAPA calls on civil society actors, CBO’s, the media and development partners to use this report, share it and rely on it in their advocacy ensuring that its recommendations are translated into policy implementation.
On behalf of WAAPA, I extend appreciation to the Liberia Alcohol Policy Alliance and all partners who worked tirelessly to make this possible. WAAPA remains committed to advancing stronger alcohol control policies and legislations in Liberia and across the region Mr. Ali concluded.
For her part, Liberia Alcohol Policy Alliance coordinator Mrs. Roseline Thomas Richards said, the workshop marks a critical step in our journey toward a comprehensive and effective alcohol policy framework stressing that Alcohol misuse continues to pose serious challenges to public health, safety, and development across Liberia and the region. The draft legislation we are reviewing is not just a legal document-it is a blueprint for change, a reflection of our shared values, and a tool for protecting lives.
She called on participants of the workshop to engage in open dialogue, thoughtful analysis, and collaborative problem-solving. Let us listen, learn, and lead together. With unity and purpose, we can craft legislation that is evidence-based, community-driven, and impactful.
The launch of the Shadow report was graced by representatives from the ECOWAS, Carter Center and Partner in Health, among others.