MONROVIA — The Say No to Drugs campaign, which began as a community-led movement to combat substance abuse, is now facing a power struggle after one of its co-founders officially registered the initiative as a non-governmental organization (NGO) and took sole ownership.
A business registration certificate from the Liberia Business Registry, dated August 12, 2025, lists Say No to Drugs as a nonprofit. The documents show the organization is registered at ELWA Junction in Paynesville, with Liberian national Roseline Amah Giddings named as the sole registered agent and board member. This gives her full control of the group, a stark contrast to the campaign’s original community-driven mission.
The incorporation papers, which were obtained by this paper, authorize the NGO to receive financial support from both domestic and international sources. The registration is valid until August 6, 2026, and is subject to renewal.
This transition has caused friction among activists who say the new leadership is straying from the campaign’s core purpose. “What began as a movement to fight substance abuse is now being transitioned into a business-oriented venture,” said one community observer, citing the group’s recent request for tax exemptions.
Critics believe this shift undermines the credibility of a campaign that had successfully mobilized communities against rising drug use. However, supporters argue that formal registration will bring more accountability and create opportunities for sustainable funding and programming.
The controversy has already deepened divisions within the movement. Original member Sonnie Kollie recently resigned, citing disagreements over the group’s new direction and accusing the leadership of abandoning its founding mission.
The situation comes as Liberia grapples with a surge in narcotics use. Civil society groups have warned that the country could face a public health crisis if prevention and intervention efforts lose focus.
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