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Epilepsy: A Neglected Crisis in Liberia—Stigma, Economic Burdens, and Hope for Change

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By: G. Lawrence Tuopleyee
Published: January 23, 2025
Monrovia, Liberia— Epilepsy, one of the most common yet largely neglected neurological conditions worldwide, remains a silent crisis in Liberia, where stigma, lack of awareness, and inadequate healthcare access have worsened its impact on vulnerable populations. In a country where superstition often clouds medical understanding, many Liberians continue to view epilepsy as a curse or a sign of witchcraft, leading to both social and economic devastation for individuals and families.
Despite these challenges, a dedicated coalition of campaigners led by Edmund C. Gbarwee, the founder of the Help Minimize Epilepsy in Liberia initiative, is determined to change the narrative. Their efforts have brought critical attention to epilepsy, significantly reducing the stigma surrounding the condition in communities across the country. However, despite their strides, the gaps in awareness, treatment, and funding remain vast.
The Epidemic of Silence: Epilepsy in Liberia
Epilepsy is a medical condition characterized by recurring seizures, caused by electrical disturbances in the brain. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 50 million people worldwide are affected by epilepsy, and it is one of the most common neurological diseases globally. However, in Liberia, epilepsy remains largely unaddressed, overshadowed by other pressing health issues, and underreported due to the deep-rooted stigma surrounding it.
Statistics from the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) remain scarce, but it is widely acknowledged that thousands of Liberians are affected. The Help Minimize Epilepsy in Liberia initiative, which began in 2020, has been instrumental in providing the first true estimate of the scale of the problem. The campaign initially focused on Yarwin Mehnsonnoh Health District, Nimba County Electoral District Nine, a region with a notably high prevalence of epilepsy. Over the years, the initiative has grown, shedding light on the overwhelming need for support and resources.
In an interview on Liberia’s national radio station ELBC during the Bumper Show on January 22, 2025, Gbarwee reflected on the progress made. “Our mission started in Yarwin Mehnsonnoh, where epilepsy cases were alarming, but today, many people have come forward for medical treatment, instead of seeking traditional or herbal remedies,” he shared.

The Harsh Reality: Stigma and Its Economic Toll
One of the most significant barriers to addressing epilepsy in Liberia is the prevailing stigma. For many, epilepsy is viewed through the lens of superstition, often mistaken for a spiritual affliction or a curse. This has led to a frightening level of social exclusion for those suffering from seizures. Families, who often struggle to secure necessities, are further burdened by the financial strain of caring for an affected family member.
Pharmacist, Joseph Saye Quoi, a medical professional and Lead Consultant of the campaign, emphasized the profound social and economic impact of this stigma. “Epilepsy is not a contagious condition, yet its stigma spreads faster than any disease,” Pharmacist Quoi remarked during a recent health forum. “The costs of hospital visits, medication, and the absence of a national framework to support epilepsy care all place a heavy burden on families.”
In addition to the societal exclusion and shame faced by individuals with epilepsy, the economic impact is staggering. The inability to access proper care means many families resort to expensive traditional treatments or simply avoid seeking medical help altogether. This not only exacerbates the health problem but also contributes to the broader economic challenges of the country, as individuals remain unable to contribute fully to their communities or the workforce.


Making Strides: Government and Civil Society Support
Despite the barriers, there are bright spots in the campaign’s efforts. Key political figures and healthcare professionals, including Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung Sr., Rep. Taa Wongbe, Rep. Nyahn Flomo, Amb Nathaniel Barnes, Sir B. Elias Shoniyin, Mrs. Mcintosh, Aaron Zuo, some UNICCO members, Stakeholders, Community leaders, students, including Dr. Robertlee Dolo, volunteers one and all have shown strong support for the cause. Their involvement has brought much-needed attention to the issue at the national level.
In addition, support from civil society actors, such as Madame Laura Bee Kiekpo and her team from Women Empowerment Forum Liberia-WEFL and our Local and Diaspora Chairpersons Pauline Wonzon Land and Antoinette Johnson, has been instrumental in the campaign’s success in raising awareness and fostering understanding about epilepsy.


However, despite these commendable efforts, the coalition faces a daunting challenge: funding. As with many grassroots initiatives in Liberia, securing consistent funding to sustain their programs and outreach is an ongoing struggle. Inadequate medication supplies and a shortage of trained medical professionals specializing in epilepsy care are significant barriers to providing effective treatment across the country.
Gbarwee expressed concern at these challenges during his radio appearance, stating that “we must get more funding and support to build out the infrastructure for epilepsy care in Liberia. There are too many people suffering in silence, unable to access treatment, and still, many families are forced to endure the emotional and financial toll of this disease without any real help.”


The Need for National Commitment
The Help Minimize Epilepsy in Liberia campaign has been an inspiration to many, with citizens from all over the country calling in during Gbarwee’s radio interview to share their personal stories of struggle and hope. These testimonies reflect the real need for a nationwide approach to address epilepsy, one that prioritizes both medical and societal reforms.
As the campaign continues to gather momentum, the next phase of their initiative will focus on expanding public awareness and advocating for policy changes. “Education is key,” Gbarwee stressed. “People need to understand that epilepsy is not something to fear, and those affected should be treated with dignity and respect. It is only then that we can start to reduce the stigma and the social exclusion that accompanies the condition.”
A United Effort for Change
The Help Minimize Epilepsy in Liberia campaign has made strides in raising awareness and providing essential medical treatment to those affected through its partner health facilities at Boyee Clinic, Kwendin Clinic, Zahnzayee Clinic, Mehnla Clinic, and Zekepa Health Center & Maternal Waiting Home, but much remains to be done. National health officials, policymakers, and civil society groups must come together to formulate a comprehensive strategy for epilepsy care that includes public health education, accessible treatment options, and community-based interventions.
Liberians with epilepsy deserve the same rights to healthcare and social inclusion as any other citizen. As the nation continues to grow, government and society must prioritize the needs of this often-forgotten group. With continued advocacy, education, and the commitment of key stakeholders, Liberia can make significant strides in improving the lives of those affected by epilepsy.
Conclusion: A Nation’s Duty
Epilepsy is not just a medical condition; it is a reflection of how a society treats its most vulnerable members. The campaign to minimize epilepsy’s impact in Liberia has shown that with the right support, awareness, and policy commitment, the stigma surrounding epilepsy can be lifted, and lives can be saved. It is time for Liberia to recognize epilepsy for what it truly is—a manageable health condition—and not a source of shame.
For the thousands of Liberians affected by epilepsy, there is hope. The journey towards an inclusive, stigma-free society begins with education, compassion, and support.

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