The Western North Regional Commander of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), PNCO Dennis Adutwum Gyimah, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to combat the growing threat of drug abuse in the region.
Speaking at the climax of activities marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day), at the Regional Coordinating Council, the Regional Commander said the fight against drug abuse cannot be won through law enforcement alone but requires sustained prevention, education and active community participation.
Addressing stakeholders under the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” he noted that while the drug problem has existed for decades, it continues to evolve with new substances and changing patterns of abuse, demanding innovative and coordinated responses.
He explained that the Western North Regional Office organized a 12-day awareness campaign, rather than a one-day event, to deepen public understanding of the dangers of substance abuse.
The campaign included school sensitization programmes, community outreach, radio discussions, media engagements, educational sessions with staff of Asante Gold Mines at Chirano, and a seminar for guidance and counselling practitioners.
PNCO Gyimah expressed concern over the increasing abuse of cannabis, tramadol, codeine-based medicines, alcohol, the illicit mixture of tapentadol and carisoprodol commonly known as “Red”and cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages popularly called “Famude,” especially among young people.
He also highlighted the growing misuse of prescription medicines, glue and other industrial solvents, describing the trend as a serious threat to the health, productivity and future of the youth.
“The most effective weapon against drug abuse remains prevention,” he said, stressing that efforts must begin in homes, schools, workplaces and communities.
He urged parents to maintain open communication with their children, encouraged teachers and guidance counsellors to identify vulnerable students early, and called on traditional and religious leaders to continue promoting positive values. He also appealed to community members to report drug-related activities, noting that criminal networks thrive where communities remain silent.
The Regional Commander commended the Food and Drugs Authority, Ghana Education Service, Regional Coordinating Council, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued collaboration with the Commission.
He is urging all stakeholders to move beyond awareness to action by strengthening prevention efforts, empowering young people with opportunities, and working together to build drug-free schools, safer communities and healthier families across the Western North Region.
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