Accra: Mr. Alexander Twum-Barimah, the Deputy Director General in Charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination at the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), announced the commission's commitment to pursuing illicit drug traffickers through every possible avenue. This strategic move aims to mitigate addiction, drug-related crimes, and associated health risks in Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Twum-Barimah highlighted the persistent threat of illicit drug trafficking to Ghana's public health, security, and youth. He emphasized this commitment during the closing ceremony of the Universal Treatment Curriculum (UTC) training 2025, organized by NACOC in Accra. The event trained treatment professionals, peer counselors, and support workers to aid individuals and communities grappling with substance use disorders.
The training, which lasted three weeks, covered areas such as Pharmacology and Physiology of Drugs, Treatment, Co-occurring Disorders, and Basic Counseling Skills. Mr. Twum-Barimah noted the alarming rise in opioid abuse, particularly the non-medical use of tramadol, known as 'Red,' which poses a significant challenge across all societal segments.
"This training represents a vital step in our proactive response to the challenge," he stated. By enhancing the capacities of treatment professionals and support workers, NACOC aims to fortify Ghana's drug response strategy. Mr. Twum-Barimah stressed the importance of public education, stigma reduction, and advocating for policies that prioritize recovery and rehabilitation.
He also urged media platforms to promote treatment-centered discussions. Mr. Logosu Amegashie, a facilitator at the training, reiterated that addiction is a brain disease driven by compulsive substance use. He pointed out that irregular training schedules, due to funding issues, have diminished stakeholder engagement.
To counter this, Mr. Amegashie suggested encouraging corporate contributions and strengthening NACOC's lobbying efforts for broader financial support. He proposed involving all public service institutions and even considering a dedicated tax to sustain this initiative, given the societal impact of drug addiction.
Furthermore, Mr. Osei Bonsu Nana Safo, a training participant, emphasized that addiction should be approached with empathy and a commitment to rehabilitation. He highlighted the importance of focusing on those already affected by addiction within communities, ensuring they have access to comprehensive healthcare services. With proper care, recovery is possible, he affirmed.
