ECOWAS Parliament Launches Anti-Drug, Mental Health Campaign in Liberia
In a renewed effort to tackle the growing crisis of drug abuse and mental health disorders across West Africa, the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched an intensive awareness campaign in Monrovia, Liberia.
The initiative, which runs from August 4 to 8, 2025, marks the latest phase of a regional sensitization effort that previously held similar activities in Conakry, Guinea, and Freetown, Sierra Leone, in June.
The campaign aims to bring national attention to the alarming rise in substance abuse and mental health challenges that are increasingly affecting the region’s youth and vulnerable populations.
Led by a delegation of ECOWAS parliamentarians, with support from parliamentary staff, the mission in Monrovia will feature robust engagements with key national stakeholders—including government ministries, health professionals, recovering youth, civil society groups, and local authorities. The visiting delegation will also conduct field visits to specialized drug treatment and rehabilitation centers in the Liberian capital.
Speaking on the purpose of the initiative, ECOWAS Parliament noted that the campaign is part of broader regional efforts to foster a resilient and united West African community that prioritizes the health, well-being, and future of its young population.
“This is not just about awareness—it is about action. We are here to listen, learn, and work collaboratively with national actors to develop sustainable responses to these twin challenges of addiction and mental health,” a member of the ECOWAS delegation stated.
As substance abuse continues to erode the social and economic fabric of many West African societies, the ECOWAS Parliament has pledged to maintain momentum and coordinate across borders to ensure that support systems, preventive education, and treatment infrastructures are strengthened throughout the region.
