Accra: The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has launched the 'Ghana Against Drugs - 'Red Means Stop'' campaign, a national youth anti-drug initiative aimed at combating the rising tide of substance abuse among the youth. The initiative was carried out in collaboration with Entertainment Week Ghana and seeks to raise public awareness about the dangers of opioid abuse, engage policymakers in meaningful discussions to strengthen regulatory frameworks, and implement proactive measures to curb the availability and misuse of these substances.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. George Opare Addo, the sector minister, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the health and future of young people, stating that substance abuse, particularly the misuse of opioids, poses a severe threat to the well-being of the youth and the nation's future. He highlighted the rapid spread of dangerous opioids, notably one known as 'Red', as a national concern, underscoring the need for a decisive stand against this menace.
Mr. Opare Addo called for the collective commitment of government institutions to enforce stringent regulations against illegal drug distribution. He urged traditional and religious leaders to provide moral guidance and community support, while also imploring the media to amplify the Red Means Stop campaign message and hold institutions accountable. He stressed the need for policymakers, community leaders, educators, and parents to unite in the fight, with every ministry, department, and agency developing institution-specific messages to protect young people from substance abuse.
He advised the youth to recognize their value and potential, urging them to say no to drugs, surround themselves with positive influences, and seek help when needed. He emphasized that their future is bright and encouraged them to believe in themselves, work hard, and stay focused on their goals. Mr. Opare Addo also highlighted the availability of national helplines, local counseling services, and support groups for those struggling with substance abuse.
Mr. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, the Deputy Minister of the Interior, described the campaign theme 'Red Means Stop' as a clarion call for every Ghanaian to take a stand against drug abuse. He noted a study among adolescents in nine senior high schools in the Northern Region, which found that 62.3 percent had used an illicit substance at least once in their lifetime, with 6.2 percent reporting smoking, 5.0 percent consuming alcohol, and 62.3 percent using other illicit drugs.
Mr. Terlabi stressed the importance of ensuring that youth understand the dangers of substance abuse, resist peer pressures, and make informed decisions to secure their future. He concluded by emphasizing that the campaign is not just about awareness but also about action, calling for a united effort to make Ghana a country where drug abuse is rejected, dreams are protected, and youth can thrive in a healthy and safe environment.
