The Bono Regional Mental Health Coordinator, Mr. Joseph Yere has expressed concerns over the escalating demand and use of illicit drugs among the youth in the region.
Mr. Yere concerns were raised at the commemoration of World Drug Day on Thursday, 26th June 2025, at Sunyani Senior High School auditorium.
The theme “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All” promotes support for drug prevention and awareness, access to treatment, and care for those suffering from drug use disorders.
The Mental Health Coordinator advocated for intelligence-led operations to dismantle the illicit drug business across the region.
Speaking to the media in an interview, the mental health Coordinator bemoaned a lack of treatment and rehabilitation centres in the region and advocates for establishing a well-resourced centre to address this gap.
The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa said the NDC government, led by H.E John Dramani Mahama, remains committed to supporting rehabilitation centres, training of mental health professionals and orientation programmes that offer people a second chance at life.
Speaking as a guest of honour, the minister used the event to encourage all stakeholders-especially Faith Based Organizations, NGOs, and the private sector, to partner with expanding access to treatment and recovery services.
The minister believes no one should be left behind due to stigma, poverty, or lack of access to healthcare.
Hon. Joseph Addae Akwaboa stressed that the fight against illicit drug trafficking requires robust collaboration between enforcement agencies-Customs, Immigration and community watch dogs.
He called on all communities across the Bono Region and beyond to remain vigilant and support the efforts of the Narcotics Control Commission, the Ghana Police Service, and the traditional leaders in exposing drug trafficking operations.
