A Statement by Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, Minister of Health of the Republic of Liberia

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen: I bring you warm greetings from the people of Liberia. Acknowledging that Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant burden on health systems, communities, and the national economy, Liberia remains committed towards combating NCDs and promoting mental health as integral components of our broader pursuit of Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals. We recognize that NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers, and chronic respiratory illnesses are major concerns in the country.

In response to the rising burden of NCDs, Liberia is scaling-up prevention and treatment and community awareness efforts, while establishing strategic partnerships to address the behavioral and environmental risk factors for NCDs.  To strengthen early detection and integrated management, the country has adopted the WHO Package of Essential Noncommunicable Disease Interventions (WHO PEN) and the WHO Africa Regional PEN-Plus Strategy. These frameworks are instrumental in enhancing the capacity of the national health system to provide equitable, decentralized, and high-quality NCD care, with a particular focus on primary health care.

Equally, we are making significant strides in mental health. In 2024, Liberia updated its mental health policy and strategic plan, placing strong emphasis on integration of mental health services at all levels of the healthcare system. In order to bridge the treatment gap, Liberia has validated and is currently implementing the WHO Mental Health Gap Action Programme Version 3.0. In addition to strengthening health facilities, we are embedding mental health support in non-health settings including schools, workplaces, and prisons, ensuring that services reach those most vulnerable and often most overlooked.

Despite the progress, Liberia remains affected by the global drug abuse crisis, which continues to disproportionately affect our youth and exacerbate mental health challenges across our communities. In response to this challenge, His Excellency, the President of Liberia, has declared drug abuse a public health emergency, rallying national and community efforts to respond. Through a coordinated, multisectoral approach, efforts are being mobilized across health, education, justice, security, and civil society organizations to address this crisis together in a holistic manner.

Excellencies, Liberia remains committed to collaborate with global and regional partners in advancing the fight against NCDs and mental health challenges. We firmly believe that enhanced solidarity, sustained investment, evidence-based policies and innovative approaches are essential for protecting the health and well-being of our people.

I thank you.