By Jamesetta D. Williams
Partners of Liberia including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), and local community-based and civil society organizations are collaborating with the Ministry of Health to strengthen efforts aimed at preventing the use of drug through the implementation of the Strong Families Program across communities in Liberia.
Liberia is among the first countries in the world to implement the evidence-based program, which focuses on preventing substance abuse by strengthening families and promoting healthy relationships between parents, caregivers, and children.
The initiative recognizes the family as the foundation of society and seeks to address the root causes of drug use by equipping parents and caregivers with practical parenting skills. The program helps families improve communication, build stronger emotional bonds, establish appropriate household rules, and create safe and supportive home environments.
At the same time, children participating in the program are taught essential life skills, including self-confidence, resilience, responsible decision-making, and strategies to resist negative peer pressure and substance use.
Health authorities say the Strong Families Program is part of Liberia’s broader strategy to reduce drug abuse and strengthen community-based prevention efforts. Through partnerships with international organizations and local stakeholders, the government aims to empower families to play a leading role in protecting young people from the dangers of illicit drug use.
Officials believe that investing in family-centered prevention programs will contribute to healthier communities and support the country’s ongoing efforts to address substance abuse among children and young people.
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