Accra: Barima Osei Hwedie II, the Ejurahene (Chief), has made an urgent appeal for unified efforts from all stakeholders to address the escalating problem of drug abuse among the youth in Ghana. He emphasized the critical need for intervention, noting that the increasing cases of drug addiction are jeopardizing the nation's future.
According to Ghana News Agency, Barima Osei Hwedie II delivered his remarks during the conclusion of the 2025 Ejura Sekyerene Festival, also known as the Yam festival. He urged the youth to avoid harmful drugs and other negative behaviors that could lead to trouble. The chief highlighted that the current national challenges are partly a result of rising societal indiscipline, particularly among young people. He pointed out that drug abuse contributes to the deterioration of physical and mental health, an increase in crime rates, social unrest, and the destruction of lives and properties.
Barima Osei Hwedie II called for a comprehensive and collective approach to tackle this pressing issue, which threatens the peace and development of both Ejura and the broader Ghanaian community. Additionally, he encouraged residents to maintain cleanliness in their communities to prevent diseases.
Odeneho Okyere Kusi Ntrama II, the Paramount Chief of Esumenya Traditional Council, also expressed his concern over the loss of young lives to illicit drugs. He stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to confront this issue, which poses a threat to the nation's development and security.
