In Margibi County, As The Narcotic Drugs Menace Remains A Challenge
By Alfred Kollie, alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com
MARSHALL, Liberia – A local nonprofit organization, Rescue Liberia Against Drug Abuse and Addiction, has officially launched a high school sensitization and awareness campaign aimed at tackling drug abuse among young people in Boys Town, Marshall, Margibi County.
The campaign launch was held at the John Payne Mitchell High School and brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), the Liberia National Police, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and civil society groups.
Speaking at the event, the Station Manager of Voice Radio, Marshall Emmanuel Lepolu urged students to protect their minds and future from the dangers of drugs.
Lepolu described drug abuse as a “trap” that continues to destroy the lives and dreams of Liberia’s youth.
“Drugs are an enemy. They destroy your life, lead to pain, and shatter your dreams. As future leaders of Liberia, you must protect your mind, stay away from drugs, and safeguard your health,” he said, emphasizing the impact of peer pressure as a leading cause of drug involvement among students.
He encouraged young people to stay focused on their education and make informed decisions that contribute to their personal development and the betterment of society.
Speaking on the topic of saying no to drugs, the young station manager wants young people to avoid making decisions that would destroy their future and focus on education to better their lives, families, and society.
Pastor Blamo Sorbor, CEO of Rescue Liberia Against Drug Abuse and Addiction, revealed that the campaign was inspired by a recent survey showing that many young people are introduced to drugs through peer influence within school environments.
He said the organization’s strategy includes the installation of billboards on school campuses bearing the message “Say No to Drugs,” targeting institutions in both Margibi and Montserrado counties.
“Our goal is to educate students at an early stage and provide the right information to prevent them from falling into addiction,” Pastor Sorbor noted.
Founded in 2017, Rescue Liberia Against Drug Abuse and Addiction is a faith-based nonprofit that supports rehabilitation, advocacy, awareness, and sensitization efforts in the fight against drug abuse across Liberia.
The campaigners are calling for a united national effort, involving law enforcement, school administrators, and the community to ensure a drug-free Liberia.