Several disadvantaged youths in Monrovia, often referred to as “zogos,” are making a heartfelt appeal to the Government of Liberia, particularly through the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), to intensify efforts in removing harmful drugs from the country and rehabilitating their lives broken by addiction.
In a recent visit by this paper to a local ghetto in Paynesville, visibly affected young men opened up about their struggles and stories with substance abuse and their desire to change, if given the opportunity.
“We’re not proud of the life we live,” said one of the young men, nervously adjusting a tattered coat over his shoulders. “These drugs are destroying us. We want the government to help us by removing them from the country. We want a way out.”
Another, with a faint smile and a hopeful look in his eyes, added: “We’re tired. We need help. We’re calling on well-meaning Liberians to help take us off the streets and give us a second chance. Many of us want to be useful citizens again.”
The youths emphasized that many of them fell into addiction due to peer pressure, family issues, and lack of opportunities. However, they say they still believe in redemption if only the right structures are put in place.
They called for the establishment of more rehabilitation centers, vocational training programs, and psychosocial support services to reintegrate them into society.
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency has been actively fighting drug trafficking and abuse, but these voices from the streets serve as a critical reminder that enforcement must be paired with compassion, support, and long-term solutions for recovery.
As Liberia continues to battle the rising wave of drug addiction, these youths’ voices are a plea to both leaders and citizens: help us live again.
