President John Dramani Mahama has urged the traditional authority to contribute their quota in fighting drug abuse in the country.
According to the President, most of the drug victims, particularly the youth, are vulnerable reemphasising the need for stakeholders to take stringent measures in tackling the canker.
In a speech read on his behalf by the Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, during the climax of the Dumba festival 2025 in Wa, President Mahama noted that drug abuse is a “destructive narcotics menace” that threatens the future of Ghana’s development.
He stressed on the need to involve chiefs, elders, and opinion leaders to join forces with the government to fight the menace.
“The fight against drug abuse cannot be left to the government alone. Traditional Authorities, who remain custodians of our culture and conscience, have a pivotal role to play,” the President noted.
He added that: “Drug abuse is an enemy to progress. It destroys families, robs our youth of their potential, fuels crime, and undermines the moral fibre of society.”
President Mahama admonished the traditional authority to intensify community sensitisation and enforce the community by-laws, mentorship and guidance on the dangers of drug abuse.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement agencies and expand rehabilitation services by creating opportunities for youth development through the 24-Hour Economy initiative, industrial parks, and entrepreneurship support.
He also assured that he will deepen civic engagement through regional task forces such as the Upper West Regional Anti-Drug Abuse Taskforce, to drive the fight against drug abuse.
He stressed the need for accountability, discipline, and respect for authority, emphasising that culture was a living resource that must be nurtured and transmitted.
“The fight against drug abuse demands nothing less than our collective resolve. With traditional authorities guiding our people, with government providing leadership and opportunity, and with citizens uniting in purpose, I am confident that we can turn the tide.
“Together, let us protect our youth, safeguard our culture, and build a Ghana of dignity, sobriety, and prosperity,” the President noted.
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