Published: October 29, 2025
Gbarnga City, Bong County—As Liberia grapples with growing wave of drugs abuse, Bong County Superintendent, Hawa Norris, has added her voice to the claim suggesting that unemployment is a major factor for the increase in drug addiction in Liberia.
Sup. Norris, during an appearance on Super Bongese recently, disclosed that more youths are turning to drugs due to what she described as “lack of job opportunities” for the youthful populace who should secure a prosperous future for Liberia. “”There are no jobs. When someone is employed, they won’t focus on drugs because they have to go to work and earn their pay,” she emphasized.
Liberia with a youthful population estimated to be roughly one-third of the total population according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is facing growing unemployment challenge, something Sup. Norris blamed for surge in illicit drugs use. However, the termination of USAID which was funding the operations of several youth-driven organizations has exacerbated the situation.
She said employing young Liberians would help keep them off drugs as they will only be focused on bettering their livelihoods and catering to their families. She expressed conviction that doing so would help eradicate drug abuse and rising addiction. ”If we can find something for young people to do to earn income, I believe there will be a reduction in drug use,” she stated.
Madam Norris, who is currently leading an anti drug campaign in the county, has expressed frustration over the proliferation of narcotics, reaffirming her administration’s zero-tolerance stance against the menace. “
“The proliferation of drugs in the county is overwhelming,” she lamented. She called on citizens of the county to augment efforts of the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency by reporting individuals involved in the sale or distribution of illegal substances. In recent weeks, the LDEA has arrested more than five suspected drug dealers, who have since been forwarded to the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court for prosecution. Superintendent Norris commended the joint security forces—especially the LDEA—for their crackdown efforts and urged them to continue their operations to ensure that Bong County becomes drug-free.
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