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

A Canadian delegation visited Liberia to address the nation’s mental health and substance abuse crisis. Led by Leo Nupolu Johnson, the delegation emphasized sustained cooperation, engaging with Canadian interns on community research. The visit highlighted the newly inaugurated Liberian Learning Center and facilitated discussions on investing in education and public health interventions, reflecting Canada’s commitment to Liberia’s development priorities.

On March 21, 2025, a Canadian delegation focused on addressing Liberia’s escalating drug addiction crisis, recently declared a national emergency by President Joseph Boakai. The delegation engaged with Canadian interns involved in a community-based research initiative on mental health and substance abuse, part of a four-year project funded by Global Affairs Canada, alongside Empowerment Squared and McMaster University.

Over the next three years, diverse cohorts of Canadian interns of African descent will execute fieldwork in Montserrado, Margibi, and Grand Bassa counties. Their contributions are instrumental in Liberia’s sustained efforts to combat challenges related to substance abuse and mental health.

The distinguished delegation, led by Leo Nupolu Johnson, CEO of Empowerment Squared, completed a transformative two-day visit to Liberia. This engagement emphasized Canada’s dedication to Liberia’s developmental priorities and established long-term partnerships in vital sectors including education, youth empowerment, health, and economic growth, hosted by Ama Harris of Empowerment Squared Liberia and Board Member Attorney Decontee King-Sackie.

Included in the delegation were senior representatives from Global Affairs Canada and the Canadian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire, responsible for Liberia’s diplomatic relations. The team, comprising Marie Belanger, Amadou Kane, and Euloge Camara, engaged with crucial government bodies such as the Ministries of Youth & Sports, Health, and Foreign Affairs. Their discussions explored collaborative approaches to urgent national challenges in education, economic progress, and public health.

A prominent highlight was the tour of the newly inaugurated Liberian Learning Center, a $2 million educational and community development hub. As the first of its kind in Liberia, it symbolizes learning, innovation, and sustainability. Key features include libraries for children and adults, co-working spaces, conference rooms, and a sports facility to enhance youth engagement.

Additionally, the Liberian Learning Center is notable for its environmental sustainability: it is fully solar-powered, constructed with eco-friendly materials, and equipped with a rainwater collection system, promoting energy and water conservation.

The Canadian delegation recognized the Learning Center’s innovative approach, appreciating its potential to serve as a model for sustainable education and development in Liberia. Since 2022, Empowerment Squared has mobilized nearly $10 million in investments to enhance Liberia’s development efforts. These funds, secured from entities such as the Mastercard Foundation and Global Affairs Canada, support education access, research-driven substance abuse interventions, and entrepreneurship training.

Reflecting on the visit, Leo Nupolu Johnson stated, “The partnerships we are forging between Canada and Liberia represent a shared vision for empowerment, resilience, and sustainable development. This visit reaffirms our commitment to building impactful programs that transform lives and strengthen communities.”

In conclusion, the visit by the Canadian delegation signifies a strengthening of bilateral relations and a commitment to future collaborative efforts. With continued investments and strategic initiatives, the partnership between Canada and Liberia holds promise for enhancing the nation’s sustainable development objectives.

The Canadian delegation’s engagement in Liberia highlights a shared commitment to addressing urgent mental health and substance abuse issues. Their collaboration underscores the importance of continued international partnerships in developmental initiatives. With strategic investments and innovative projects like the Liberian Learning Center, both nations are poised to foster sustainable growth and empowerment in Liberia, paving the way for a brighter future.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com