As part of the 2025 National Youth Festival, the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment dedicates the month of August to raising awareness and fighting drug abuse especially the rising use of dangerous opioid Red 225.
The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has launched a national campaign to tackle the growing crisis of opioid and substance abuse among Ghanaian youth. Dubbed ‘Red Means Stop’, the initiative is a key part of activities marking the 2025 National Youth Festival.
The campaign focuses particularly on the alarming spread of Red 225, a high-dose version of tramadol, which is reportedly being smuggled into the country illegally and widely abused by young people.
“We have dedicated the entire month of August to fight the abuse of opioids and other harmful substances.
This is not just a government initiative it’s a national call to action,” said Minister Opare Addo. Ghana is currently facing a dangerous surge in drug abuse, with Red 225 at the center of the crisis.
Red 225 is a potent painkiller intended only for the treatment of moderate to severe pain under strict medical supervision.
However, it is not approved by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and is believed to be entering the country through illegal channels.
Its abuse is rising rapidly, especially among young people, who reportedly use it for various reasons, including: Working longer hours, Prolonging sexual activity, Reducing fatigue during physically demanding jobs
The widespread misuse of the drug is already having devastating effects, including addiction, mental health issues, and increased crime rates in some communities.
The Acting CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga, also threw his weight behind the campaign, stressing the need for coordinated efforts to protect the future of the country’s youth.
“This campaign is not just about awareness—it’s about empowerment. We are urging young people to take charge of their health and make choices that will lead to a better future,” Ayariga said.
He further encouraged youth across the country to actively participate in the month-long campaign, which will include education drives, school and community outreach programs, social media activations, and collaborations with health professionals and civil society groups.
The National Youth Festival, celebrated throughout August, is being observed under the theme “Empowering Youth for a Resilient and Drug-Free Future.”
This year’s edition places a strong emphasis on combating substance abuse as a barrier to development.
Osman Abdulai Ayariga also used the opportunity to remind young Ghanaians that Youth Month is not just a celebration but a call to action.
“We want our young people to know that they are the backbone of national development. This month is an invitation for them to rise up, lead change in their communities, and say no to the substances destroying lives,” he added.
While government agencies are mobilizing resources to fight the crisis, success depends heavily on public cooperation and youth engagement.
Stakeholders are calling on parents, teachers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations to join the fight against drug abuse.
As the ‘Red Means Stop’ campaign rolls out nationwide, the government hopes to not only reduce the prevalence of opioid use but also equip young people with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier, more productive lives.
