Background
Drug abuse in Liberia has become a pressing public health and societal issue, particularly affecting youth and vulnerable populations. The aftermath of Liberia's civil wars, which lasted from 1989 to 2003, left the country with fractured institutions, high unemployment, and widespread poverty—factors that have facilitated the proliferation of illegal drug use[1][5].
The civil war played a significant role in increasing substance use, with many young people being drugged to participate in combat. A study found that 44.9% of male combatants and 12.3% of female combatants reported engaging in substance use during the war[1]. This wartime exposure to drugs has had lasting effects on Liberian society, contributing to the current drug abuse crisis[2].
In the post-war context, substance use has become a key factor contributing to increased interpersonal violence, sexual risk-taking, violent crime, and other problems in Liberian society[1]. The Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS) reports that about 17% of students aged 12 to 17 reported using drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine in the past year[6].
The economic and social factors exacerbating the drug abuse problem are significant. It is estimated that 79% of Liberia's population comprises young people between the ages of 15 and 36, and at least 85% are jobless due to lack of education and skills[3]. This widespread unemployment limits their chances of accessing social, economic, and political opportunities, pushing many towards drug use and criminal activities.
The types of drugs commonly abused in Liberia include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and synthetic drugs. Local terminology for these substances varies, with "opium" often referring to cannabis in Liberia[5]. The prevalence of drug use among youth is alarming, with recent studies suggesting that approximately 20% of young people in Liberia are using substances[3].
The consequences of drug abuse in Liberia are far-reaching, affecting not only individual users but also broader communities. These include increased crime rates, strained relationships, social instability, and economic challenges[3]. The World Health Organization estimates that 10% of the general population in Liberia suffers from common mental health disorders, with substance abuse being a significant contributing factor[3].
Addressing this complex issue requires a multifaceted approach involving education, economic development, and improved healthcare services. The Liberian government has addressed the problem, including passing laws and policies, forming a task force, and collaborating with international organizations to implement initiatives[6]. However, the ongoing challenges highlight the need for continued efforts to combat drug abuse and its devastating effects on Liberian society.
Prevalence among youth
The prevalence of drug abuse among Liberian youth is alarmingly high, with significant implications for the country's future. According to the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA), two in ten youth in Liberia are deeply involved in the consumption of narcotic substances or drug abuse[8]. This statistic is supported by estimates from the United Nations Population Fund, which suggests that at least 20% of young people in Liberia are using substances, including kush and synthetic marijuana[1].
Stakeholders and International Partners have expressed grave concern about this trend. Warning that if not addressed with resilience, the country risks facing a national crisis in the coming years[8]. The rapid growth in youth appetite for drugs poses significant threats to Liberia's stability and prospects.
## Types of Drugs
The drug landscape in Liberia is diverse and increasingly dangerous. Common drugs include:
1. Heroin
2. Cocaine (referred to as "Italian white")
3. Marijuana
4. Kush (synthetic marijuana)
The LDEA reports that every dangerous drug is now available in the country, including a substance referred to as "Zombie"[8]. This wide availability of various narcotic substances contributes to the complexity of addressing the drug abuse problem in Liberia.
Kush, in particular, has become a significant concern. It is a deadly synthetic cannabis that originates in Sierra Leone and is manufactured and distributed by criminal gangs in the region[9]. The drug contains chemicals and plants that mimic the natural cannabinoid THC in cannabis but with much higher potency. It is often mixed with dangerous additives, including acetone, opioids like tramadol and fentanyl, paint, disinfectants, and formaldehyde[9].
Impact of the Civil War
Liberia's civil war, which lasted from 1989 to 2003, played a significant role in increasing substance use among the population, particularly young people. Many young combatants were given or forced to use drugs to improve their performance in combat[6]. A study found that 44.9% of male combatants and 12.3% of female combatants reported engaging in substance use during the war[6].
This wartime exposure to drugs has had lasting effects on Liberian society, contributing to the current drug abuse crisis. The war created a generation of young people who were introduced to drugs at an early age and in traumatic circumstances. Many of these individuals have struggled with addiction and related issues in the post-war period[6].
The legacy of the civil war continues to impact drug use patterns in Liberia. Many former combatants, including child soldiers, have struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues, which can increase the risk of substance abuse[10]. The lack of comprehensive rehabilitation programs for ex-combatants has exacerbated this problem[13].
The high prevalence of drug abuse among Liberian youth, the diverse and dangerous drug landscape, and the lasting impact of the civil war have created a complex and challenging situation. Addressing this crisis will require a multifaceted approach considering the historical context, current social and economic conditions, and the specific needs of affected individuals and communities.
Health Implications
The World Health Organization estimates that 10% of the general population in Liberia suffers from common mental health disorders, with substance abuse being a significant contributing factor[9]. Drug use also increases the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission, particularly among injecting drug users. John, a peer educator and project beneficiary, highlights this risk: "As a drug user, I know I have been risking my life and exposing myself to dangers of getting infected with HIV. When sharing the needle, I have been so exposed because I don't know the status of my friends"[11].
Impact on education
Drug use is associated with lower grades, higher dropout rates, and increased involvement in violence and crime among students. A study by the Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS) found that about 17% of students aged 12 to 17 reported using drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine in the past year[8]. This high prevalence of drug use among school-aged children has severe implications for Liberia's educational system and future workforce.
Samuel Y. Koenig, County Education Officer in Bomi County, notes: "Through the implementation of health club activities, students are engaging their peers to discuss some of the harmful habits such as students carrying drugs to school and teenage pregnancy"[13]. This observation highlights the interconnected nature of drug abuse with other social issues affecting Liberian youth.
The drug abuse situation in Liberia presents a complex challenge that threatens the country's youth, public health, and overall development. Addressing this issue will require a holistic approach involving education, economic growth, and improved healthcare services.
Government response:
- President Joseph Boakai has declared drugs a national health crisis and called for a comprehensive approach to address the issue.
- The government has initiated programs like the Socio-Economic Empowerment of Disadvantaged Youth project to help young people get off drugs.
3. Associated consequences:
The LISGIS study associated drug use with several adverse outcomes:
- Lower grades
- Higher dropout rates
- Increased involvement in violence and crime [4]
4. Prevalence among former child soldiers:
A mixed-methods study found that among students who were former child soldiers, the rates of current substance use were 5.8–33.8% higher compared to the overall study sample [2]. This suggests that the legacy of Liberia's civil war continues to impact substance use patterns.
Recommendations:
1. Public Education and Awareness:
- Implement comprehensive drug education programs in schools, as recommended by UNESCO (2015).
- Engage community leaders and religious organizations in awareness campaigns.
2. Strengthen Law Enforcement:
- Enhance border control measures to curb drug trafficking.
- Provide specialized training for law enforcement agencies in drug-related crime prevention and investigation.
3. Rehabilitation and Support Services:
- Expand access to drug rehabilitation centers, as recommended by the Liberian Ministry of Health's Mental Health Policy and Strategic Plan (2016-2021).
- Develop community-based support programs for recovering addicts.
4. Youth Empowerment Initiatives:
- Implement vocational training programs to reduce youth unemployment, a critical factor in drug abuse.
- Establish safe recreational facilities and mentorship programs in high-risk communities.
5. Policy and Institutional Reforms:
- Develop a comprehensive national drug control strategy integrating prevention, treatment, and law enforcement efforts.
- Allocate resources for research to inform evidence-based policies on drug abuse prevention and treatment.
Conclusion:
Drug abuse in Liberia poses a significant threat to the country's development and the well-being of its future generations. The multifaceted nature of this crisis requires a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach that prioritizes prevention, rehabilitation, and youth empowerment. By addressing the root causes of drug abuse and implementing comprehensive strategies, Liberia can work towards breaking the cycle of addiction and securing a healthier, more prosperous future for its next generation.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Get Involved
Do you have additional facts to add to this insight or an opinion you would like to express?
Email Us
References:
[1] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10597-017-0154-3
[2] https://scholarworks.merrimack.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1064&context=soe_student_ce
[3] https://gnnliberia.com/liberia-zogos-epidemic-the-struggle-of-liberian-youth-against-drug-addiction/Liberia, Impact of Drugs Abuse, Risk to the next generation
[4] https://www.unodc.org/res/WDR-2023/WDR23_Exsum_fin_DP.pdf
[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8734640/Liberia, Impact of Drugs Abuse, Risk to the next generation Liberia,Liberia, Impact of Drugs Abuse, Risk to the next generation Impact of Drugs Abuse, Risk to the next generation
[6] https://thenewdawnliberia.com/the-impact-of-drugs-on-students-in-liberia/
Comments