The youth of Akuma, a community in the Nkoranza South Municipality of the Bono East Region, have organized a community clean-up exercise and anti-drug abuse campaign aimed at promoting a healthier and safer environment.
Held under the theme “Let’s Keep Akuma Clean and Healthy, Say No to Drugs,” the initiative sought to discourage drug abuse among young people and raise awareness about the dangers associated with the misuse of illicit substances.
The programme brought together health professionals and officers from the Ghana Police Service, who educated the youth on the health, social, and legal consequences of drug abuse, which has been linked to rising cases of ill health, crime, and premature deaths.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Patrick Bangnea, a Health Promotion Officer at the Akuma Health Centre, warned that the abuse of drugs continues to threaten the future of many young people.
He mentioned substances such as marijuana, tramadol, Red,“Ekikime,” and other illicit drugs as commonly abused by the youth.
According to him, while medicines are meant to cure illnesses, misusing them turns them into dangerous substances. He explained that taking drugs like tramadol without medical prescription constitutes abuse and can lead to serious health complications, including death.
Also addressing participants, Maxwell Owusu, a police officer from the Municipal Police Station, speaking on behalf of the Municipal Commander, cautioned that drug abuse often fuels criminal behaviour.
He stressed that the Narcotics Control laws of Ghana clearly prohibit the possession and misuse of illegal drugs and outlined the penalties offenders face under the law.
He urged the youth to stay away from drugs and channel their energy into productive and lawful activities.
