Keta: Illicit drug abuse has emerged as a pervasive global issue, particularly among the youth, with devastating consequences for individuals, families, and society at large. The ease of access to harmful substances, coupled with the pressures of modern life, has fueled a troubling rise in drug use among young people.
According to Ghana News Agency, among the most frequently abused drugs by youth today are marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription opioids. These substances, when used outside the supervision of certified medical practitioners, can lead to physical dependence, addiction, and a host of health complications.
Drug abuse among young people is often driven by a complex mix of factors, including peer pressure, emotional stress, mental health challenges, sexual enhancement, and unstable family dynamics. Many youths turn to drugs as a coping mechanism for trauma or emotional pain.
Research conducted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) indicates that drug abuse affects youth across various age groups, with late adolescence to early adulthood being the most vulnerable period. A 25-year-old marijuana user in Keta, who spoke anonymously to GNA, shared his experience: ‘I started using ganja at age nine. A friend introduced me to it in primary school. Now, I sometimes use harder drugs like opioids. It gives me strength to work long hours.’ He revealed that substances are readily available in local joints such as ghettos, drinking bars, and even drug stores across the Keta Municipality. Investigations also uncovered that some academically gifted but financially disadvantaged students-many of whom have dropped out or are unable to continue their education-resort to drug use as a form of escape.
Mr. Che Sorkpor, a Mental Health Practitioner at the Keta Municipal Hospital, warned of the severe physical and psychological effects of drug abuse, including organ damage, overdose risk, and mental health disorders. ‘Some drugs may be prescribed in hospitals for specific illnesses, but they should never be sold or used outside medical supervision,’ he emphasized. He urged parents and community members to play active roles in guiding and disciplining youth to prevent them from falling prey to harmful influences.
In Ghana, several NGOs are working to combat substance abuse among youth. Statistics show that approximately 50,000 people are drug users, with 35,000 being students aged 12 to 35. Alarmingly, nearly 50 per cent of youth mental health cases are linked to drug use. Organizations such as Total Life Enhancement Centre (TOLEC) Ghana, PADDI Foundation, Youth Against Alcoholism and Drug Dependency (YADD), ActionAid Ghana, Green Africa Youth Organization, Stowelink, and Value Health Africa are actively involved in education and rehabilitation efforts.
The ripple effects of drug abuse extend beyond health. It contributes to increased healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and strains law enforcement resources. Many students in basic, secondary, and tertiary institutions have become dependent on drugs, impairing their ability to function without them.
Addressing youth drug abuse requires a multifaceted approach: Education and Awareness: Schools and communities must implement robust awareness programmes. Law Enforcement: Agencies like the Police and Ghana Immigration Service must crack down on drug trafficking and illegal sales. Regulation: The Food and Drugs Authority must monitor drug sources and collaborate with national security forces to dismantle ghettos.
Government policies should support prevention, treatment, and harm reduction, with active involvement from healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders. Key statistics highlight the prevalence of drug use among youth in Ghana, with a significant percentage obtaining drugs from friends or dealers and acknowledging the long-term consequences of abuse.
The Narcotics Control Commission has made substantial seizures of illicit drugs in recent years, with a notable increase in convictions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern over global drug abuse trends and is working with countries like Ghana to promote education, treatment, and evidence-based policies.
Residents of Keta lament the impact of drug abuse on local youth, citing increased theft, arguments, and violence. They call for stricter by-laws and government intervention to provide resources and promote healthy lifestyles.
Drug abuse is a complex issue that demands a comprehensive response. Through collaboration among governments, NGOs, communities, and families, society can help prevent drug abuse, support affected individuals, and ensure that young people have the opportunity to thrive. Meanwhile, Mr. George Opare Addo, Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, revealed that a recent survey found 12 per cent of tertiary students abuse cocaine, 11 per cent use heroin, and 59 per cent consume weed edibles.