Canadian Delegation Addresses Liberia’s Mental Health and Substance Abuse Crisis

A Canadian delegation visited Liberia to address the drug addiction crisis, collaborating on a four-year initiative targeting mental health and substance abuse. The visit featured discussions on educational partnerships and showcased the new Liberian Learning Center. Empowerment Squared has mobilized nearly $10 million in investments for development projects, reflecting a commitment to sustainable partnerships between Canada and Liberia.

On March 21, 2025, a Canadian delegation arrived in Liberia to address the nation’s escalating drug addiction crisis recently declared a national emergency by President Joseph Boakai. The delegation met with Canadian interns engaged in community-based research focusing on substance abuse and mental health as part of a four-year initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada in collaboration with Empowerment Squared and McMaster University.

In the coming three years, various cohorts of Canadian interns of African descent will undertake fieldwork in Liberia’s Montserrado, Margibi, and Grand Bassa counties, aiding the country’s ongoing battle against substance abuse and mental health issues.

The distinguished Canadian delegation, led by Leo Nupolu Johnson, CEO of Empowerment Squared, completed a significant two-day visit to Liberia. This engagement highlighted Canada’s dedication to Liberia’s national development priorities, fostering long-term partnerships in key areas such as education, youth empowerment, health, and economic development. The visit was hosted by Ama Harris, Empowerment Squared Liberia’s Local Team Lead, and Attorney Decontee King-Sackie, a Board Member.

Included in the delegation were senior officials from Global Affairs Canada, along with representatives from the Canadian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire, which manages diplomatic relations with Liberia. The team, featuring individuals such as Marie Belanger, Amadou Kane, and Euloge Camara, met with crucial government institutions like the Ministries of Youth & Sports, Health, and Foreign Affairs. Their discussions were aimed at finding collaborative solutions to urgent national issues, particularly in areas such as education and public health.

A significant aspect of the visit was the tour of the newly inaugurate Liberian Learning Center, an innovative $2 million initiative specifically designed for education and community development. This Center, being the first of its kind in Liberia, is poised to become a hub of learning and sustainability. It consists of a dedicated library, co-working spaces for entrepreneurs, conference rooms, and a gymnasium to promote youth well-being.

The Liberian Learning Center is noteworthy for being fully solar-powered, constructed with eco-friendly materials, featuring a rainwater collection system, and designed for energy efficiency. The Canadian delegation commended the initiative for its sustainable approach, viewing it as a potential model for development in Liberia.

Since 2022, Empowerment Squared has successfully mobilized close to $10 million USD in investments for Liberia’s progress. Over $5 million USD has already been secured from various prominent partners to support educational access, substance abuse and mental health programs, and entrepreneurship training.

Reflecting on this landmark visit, Leo Nupolu Johnson emphasized the significance of ongoing international collaboration. He stated that the partnerships being created represent a collective ambition for empowerment and sustainable progress, affirming their commitment to impactful community development programs.

As the visit concluded, both Liberian and Canadian participants expressed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation. This burgeoning partnership indicates a promising future for Liberia’s development enriched by strategic investments, research, and capacity-building endeavors.

The Canadian delegation’s visit to Liberia underscores a significant commitment to addressing the country’s pressing mental health and substance abuse crisis. Through collaborative efforts, enhanced partnerships, and strategic investments, both nations aspire to empower communities and foster sustainable development. The initiatives, particularly centered around the Liberian Learning Center, set a foundation for improved health, education, and economic resilience, promoting a hopeful future for Liberia’s growth and stability.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com