The Medical Administrator of the Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital, Dr. Denis Bomansang Daliri, has raised alarm over the growing trend of drug and alcohol abuse among the youth, warning that the region faces a “silent mental health time bomb” if urgent steps are not taken. Speaking with Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen in a documentary titled “Swallowed by Drug”, Dr. Denis revealed that the majority of young patients admitted to his facility are battling substance abuse, often involving multiple drugs at once. “Currently, the majority of the patients we have, especially the youth, almost everyone admitted actually abuses one substance or the other. Most of them are polysubstance users – mixing alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, tramadol, and more,” he disclosed. Dr. Denis explained that many patients do not come to the hospital claiming they are abusing drugs. Instead, they often present with symptoms like insomnia, hallucinations, or hearing voices. “A person may actually be abusing substances but might not come because of it. They might come because they can’t sleep, or they’re hearing voices. Through our assessment, we’re able to tell them, ‘OK, so you are abusing substances, and this is the reason why you are here,’” he said. He added that the presentations vary depending on the drug: some patients arrive in acute intoxication, others in painful withdrawal, while others may show no symptoms at all but still have long-term dependency. Highlighting the mental health consequences, Dr. Denis noted that many of the substances abused are psychoactive, directly affecting the brain. “These substances play a very big role in destabilizing mental health. They affect your ability to think, your behavior, and in some cases, they trigger psychosis,” he warned. He cited marijuana as an example, saying, “With cannabis, we see what is called cannabis-induced psychosis. The person begins to hallucinate, hear voices, and believe things no one else can see. If the drug is withdrawn, they may return to normal, but the more they continue, the more permanent the damage becomes.” For individuals with a family history of mental illness, he cautioned, the risks are even higher. “If such a person abuses drugs, it can easily trigger a mental health condition that might have otherwise remained hidden,” he explained. Dr. Denis described the youth as particularly vulnerable due to curiosity, peer pressure, and the easy availability of substances. “Their brains are still developing, so anything they get hooked on now, they may be hooked on for life,” he stressed. He also pointed to cultural practices that normalize alcohol consumption and weak border controls that make smuggling drugs easy. “In many places here, alcohol is not even seen as a problem. Young people can walk into a shop, pay, and buy it freely. Combine that with cannabis and cigarettes at drinking spots, and it becomes a deadly mix,” he said. To address the crisis, Dr. Denis emphasized a multi-pronged approach: Law Enforcement: “In our markets, you’ll find someone selling phone accessories but also dealing drugs. Even scrap dealers sell tramadol. Law enforcement must tackle this head-on, and our borders must be secured.” Awareness Creation: “We assume young people know the dangers, but many don’t. Education must start from primary school to prepare their minds before they are introduced to these substances.” Treatment over Punishment: “Substance abuse should not be seen only as a behavioral crime. By the time someone becomes addicted, it has become a biological problem. Arresting and jailing addicts only worsens their plight. What they need is treatment, not punishment.” Rehabilitation Centers: “If someone in the Upper East wants help, they shouldn’t have to travel to Kumasi or Accra. Government must expand rehabilitation centers regionally to make help accessible.” Dr. Denis also cautioned against stigmatizing addicts, noting that rejection only pushes them deeper into addiction. “When we stigmatize and condemn them, they go back to drugs for comfort. But when we accept and support them, they find solace and are more likely to quit,” he advised. He concluded with a strong warning that ignoring the problem will have dire consequences for families and society. “Substance abuse is a silent mental health time bomb. If we don’t strengthen awareness, treatment, and law enforcement now, the cost will be unbearable tomorrow.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CSPF Voices Discontent Over 2026 Pension Increment
On a brisk morning in Accra, members of the Concerned SSNIT Pensioners Forum (CSPF) gathered, their faces etched with concern. News had just broken that the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) would increase pensions by 10 percent in 2026. For many, this announcement was far from the relief they had hoped for. “We expected more,” said one forum member, echoing the collective sentiment. The CSPF argued that the increment fell short, failing to counter the steady erosion of pension values brought on by persistent inflation. Every year, pensioners watched as their incomes lagged behind the national minimum wage, and this latest adjustment, they felt, would do little to bridge that widening gap. Months before, the forum had formally proposed a more ambitious plan: a minimum monthly pension of GH¢600 and a general increase of 15 to 20 percent to help restore real value to their payments. Their hopes were dashed when SSNIT’s announcement came in at just half their suggested rate. To make matters worse, CSPF members questioned what they saw as inconsistencies in SSNIT’s communication. A statement issued on January 6, 2025, had pegged the minimum monthly pension for the year at GH¢396.58. This, CSPF argued, highlighted a lack of clarity in how the figures were calculated and communicated to pensioners. Amidst the frustration, the forum called for unity and action. They urged a national dialogue to establish a sustainable pension framework, one that would guarantee retirees a life of dignity and security in their later years. Until such changes come, the CSPF remains steadfast, their voices raised in hope for a fairer future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Swallowed by Drugs: Minister Rallies Youth and Parents in Fight Against Substance Abuse
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Akamugri Donatus Atanga, has expressed deep concern over the rising trend of drug and alcohol abuse among the youth in the region, cautioning that such practices only worsen personal struggles instead of resolving them. In a documentary titled “Swallowed by Drugs” with Apexnewsgh’s Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen, the Minister likened the reliance on drugs and alcohol as a way of coping with stress to “postponing problems.” “If you are seeing that you are stressed, and for that matter, you want to go under the influence of drugs or alcohol to free yourself, you are simply postponing that stress,” he warned. “Because when the influence of the drug is over, then you have worsened your situation.” Instead, Hon Atanga encouraged young people to channel their energy into productive activities. “I would want to advise that you should concentrate on your academic activities and other professions. If you are into crafts, focus on that. When you concentrate on that, it can take you out of your troubles far better than alcohol or drugs,” he said. The Minister further urged the youth to draw inspiration from those who have overcome hardship, rather than imitating negative examples. “Don’t allow the people who have lost their way to influence you. Rather, look for the successful people to join,” he advised. The Regional Minister did not spare parents from responsibility, stressing that family attitudes often shape the choices children make. He noted that dismissing or ignoring children’s concerns could push them toward substance abuse. “Sometimes, as parents, we push them into these things. If you knock at them whenever they raise concerns, they feel nobody minds them in society. Then they resign themselves to taking drugs so they can take comfort and adapt,” he explained. He urged parents to adopt open dialogue, counseling, and positive mentorship for their children. “When you see them taking drugs, sit them down, look for counselors, or help them associate with people of good character,” he advised. The Minister also pointed to the increasing availability of unregulated pharmacies and drinking spots as fueling the crisis. “Now you have pharmacies everywhere, some not properly regulated, where hard drugs can be accessed easily. You also have drinking spots all over, which makes alcohol too available,” he observed. He recommended stricter measures by local assemblies to regulate sales. “Assemblies should pass by-laws to supervise the sale of alcohol and the operation of pharmacies. Regular inspections must be done to ensure the drugs sold are wholesome,” he said, adding that such interventions would help reduce abuse. As “father of the region,” Hon. Atanga concluded with an appeal to the youth to resist the lure of substance abuse and invest in their future. “There is not only one person who faces difficulties. Others have faced even worse situations and overcome. If you put your time to proper use, you will sustain yourself and rise above depression and hardship,” he reminded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Empowers Nabdam Farmers with New Cooperatives, Seed Funding, and Fertilizer Support
The Nabdam constituency was alive with excitement as Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Member of Parliament, inaugurated 19 newly formed cooperative farmers groups. The event marked a fresh chapter for local agriculture, promising unity, resources, and a renewed sense of purpose for farmers across the district. Before gathering the farmers for the main engagement, Dr. Nawaane took a significant step by facilitating the opening of a group bank account for the cooperatives. Demonstrating his commitment, he deposited GHC 50,000 as seed money into the account and further promised to support the groups with 190 bags of fertilizer, ensuring each cooperative had a solid foundation to launch their activities. During the inauguration, Dr. Nawaane addressed the farmers with a heartfelt speech that underscored the importance of collaboration. He explained that, while he had previously assisted individual farmers, the new approach under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama’s government emphasized group organization for greater impact. “In the past, many small and scattered farmers’ groups made it difficult to distribute support fairly and efficiently,” Dr. Nawaane recounted. “This time, we decided to form area-based groups, neighbors working with neighbors, making it easier to share information and coordinate activities.” He encouraged the cooperatives to embrace this new structure, assuring them that a coordinator and temporary leaders would help guide their efforts. With the groups now formally registered, Dr. Nawaane stressed that the extent of assistance they would receive depended on their own initiative and collaboration. “You have your seed money in the Rural Bank in Nabdam. The kind of support you get will depend on your discussions, your ideas, and your willingness to work together,” he said. Dr. Nawaane advised the groups to hold regular meetings, register new members, and keep their operations open and inclusive. He suggested modest contributions from members to supplement the seed funding and reminded everyone that lasting progress is built on collective effort rather than waiting for large, infrequent handouts. “Always remember that God helps those who help themselves,” he reminded the crowd. The MP also touched on the economic realities of the district, citing a study by the Ghana Statistical Service that placed Nabdam at the highest poverty level in the region with a 68.6% multidimensional poverty index. “Should we continue to sit down and say that because we are poor, we do nothing? No. That is why I’ve identified farming as the area where, if we work hard and support each other, we can change our destiny.” Dr. Nawaane concluded by encouraging the groups to bring forward their concerns and ideas, assuring them of his ongoing support and the potential for greater assistance from banks and government programs. He praised the achievements of local farmers, noting that some were already among the best in the district, and expressed confidence that with unity and determination, Nabdam’s farmers could transform their fortunes. With the official inauguration complete and resources in place, the 19 cooperative groups are set to begin a new journey, one fueled by teamwork, practical support, and the shared vision of a more prosperous farming community. During the inauguration of the new farmers’ cooperative groups in the Nabdam District, the District Director of Agriculture, Mr. Rasheed Imoro, delivered an insightful address that highlighted both the challenges and the opportunities facing local agriculture. Drawing from recent surveys and development strategies, Mr. Imoro emphasized that poverty and hunger in the district were not just matters of food scarcity, but also linked to how communities approached development. He urged everyone to adopt a “SWORD analysis,” to examine their strengths and weaknesses and build upon them. “Our strength in Nabdam is agriculture,” Mr. Imoro noted, “yet, despite the majority of our people being involved in farming, we remain poor. The reason is simple: we have been working as individuals, each in our own corner.” Mr. Imoro praised Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Member of Parliament, for his hands-on efforts to support farmers. He shared that Dr. Nawaane’s willingness to make his tractor available for plowing, often at great personal effort, was a rare and commendable gesture in the region. “Our soil here is hard, and without tractors, it’s nearly impossible to prepare the land after the rains. The MP’s support means a lot to our community,” he said. Turning to the future, Mr. Imoro explained that government policies, such as the Feed Ghana program introduced by President John Dramani Mahama, were designed to transform agriculture with subsidies, mechanization, and new markets. However, he stressed that these benefits were most accessible to those organized in groups. “If you are in a group, you can access loans, set market prices for your produce, and have your voice heard, not just in Nabdam, but across the whole country,” he explained. He outlined how small farmer-based organizations (FBOs) could combine to form even stronger cooperatives, echoing Dr. Nawaane’s vision for area-based groups. “A group should have a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 40 members,” he advised, “with clear leadership and an active, workable bank account.” Mr. Imoro applauded Dr. Nawaane for providing seed money to register the cooperatives and open their accounts. He explained the importance of these accounts, not just for receiving funds, but also to show potential supporters, such as those who might drill boreholes for dry-season farming, that the group is financially responsible and sustainable. He encouraged members to make regular contributions, even as little as five cedis a week, to grow their collective resources. “I’ve seen groups elsewhere with as much as GHC 200,000 in their accounts. This is the way forward,” he said. Concluding his remarks, Mr. Imoro expressed gratitude for the focused efforts of both the MP and the district executive on uplifting agriculture in Nabdam. “I am 100% in support of these initiatives,” he declared. “My doors are always open. If you need anything related to agriculture, come to our office. We are here to help.” With his practical advice and endorsement, Mr. Imoro’s speech reinforced the message that cooperation and collective action are
Swallowed by Drugs: Upper East Regional Crime Officer Details Police Role in Combating Youth Substance Abuse
In the revealing documentary “Swallowed by Drugs,” produced by Ngamegbulam Chidozie of Apexnewsgh, Superintendent Mr. Godwin Kpakpoe Moi, Upper East Regional Crime Officer, sheds light on the multi-faceted role of the Ghana Police Service in addressing drug and alcohol abuse, especially among the youth. Supt. Moi emphasized that the police are not only focused on making arrests, but are engaged in a broad, strategic effort to prevent and reduce the consequences of drug abuse across the region. “Our work is layered,” he explained. “It involves intelligence, prevention, partnerships, and, importantly, protecting vulnerable groups such as the youth.” A critical part of the police mandate is the enforcement of drug laws and the disruption of supply chains. Supt. Moi described how law enforcement agencies work to identify and dismantle the operations of drug producers, distributors, and traffickers. “We employ methods like surveillance, informant networks, undercover operations, controlled deliveries, and border checkpoints. The aim is to cut off the supply, because reducing the availability of drugs means fewer young people are exposed to them,” he noted. When offenders are apprehended, the police seize drugs, chemicals, and other paraphernalia. In severe cases, assets such as vehicles and bank accounts used in trafficking are confiscated. These actions not only remove drugs from circulation but also disrupt the financial incentives driving the trade. Recognizing that enforcement alone cannot solve the problem, Supt. Moi highlighted the importance of community policing. “We have become more receptive and open in our approach. We conduct outreach programs in schools, churches, mosques, youth clubs, markets, and lorry parks to educate people about the dangers of drug use and the tactics of dealers,” he said. Through these outreach initiatives, the police inform the public about how drugs fuel crime and encourage citizens to report suspicious activities. They also work closely with schools, training teachers to spot early signs of drug use among students and establishing police-school liaison units to foster ongoing communication. The police also collaborate with guidance counselors and social workers to direct at-risk youth toward help before addiction takes hold. “We are not therapists, but we play a key role in referring drug-dependent individuals to rehabilitation centers,” Supt. Moi explained. He stressed that not every case ends in prosecution; instead, the police support diversion programs, drug courts, and the reintegration of rehabilitated youth back into society. Supt. Moi acknowledged the broader dangers of drug markets, which often attract violence, exploitation, fraud, and gang activity. “We work to remove dangerous individuals from the community, shut down drug dens, and patrol hospitals, schools, and community centers to keep them safe,” he said. The police also collaborate with health, education, and social welfare services, as well as with community and opinion leaders. He cited international partnerships with organizations like Interpol and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which provide training and resources for local officers to better identify and tackle the drug problem. Supt. Moi concluded his remarks with a call for ongoing collaboration. The challenges posed by substance abuse, he said, require joint efforts from law enforcement, healthcare, social services, educators, community leaders, and the public. “Our fight goes far beyond the arrest of suspects. It is about prevention, education, protection, and giving the youth a fighting chance for a healthy, productive future.” His message in “Swallowed by Drugs” reflects the police service’s evolving approach—one that balances enforcement with compassion, and recognizes that solving the substance abuse crisis demands the involvement of the entire community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
BoG Governor Announces Policy Workshop to Strengthen Domestic Gold Purchase Programme
At the 77th Annual New Year School held at the University of Ghana on Tuesday, January 6, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Johnson Asiama, outlined a forward-looking strategy to enhance the country’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). Addressing a diverse audience of experts, policymakers, and practitioners, Dr. Asiama revealed that the Central Bank, in collaboration with GoldBod and the Ministry of Finance, will soon organise a targeted policy workshop. The aim is to assess and refine the DGPP, drawing on global best practices to ensure the programme’s continued relevance and effectiveness. Dr. Asiama explained that the DGPP was launched at a time of considerable economic strain, but has since played a pivotal role in restoring confidence in Ghana’s economic outlook. “Arguably, the institutional role of the GoldBod has strengthened coordination across the value chain, while the introduction of a gold FX auction mechanism has enabled more structured and transparent intermediation of gold-related foreign exchange flows,” he noted. Looking ahead, Dr. Asiama called for the G4R programme to be firmly anchored within the broader framework of the Government of Ghana, emphasizing that responsibility for its sustainability should be shared across various institutions. He urged for informed debate, evidence-based analysis, and diverse perspectives on the DGPP, highlighting its status as a national priority. The planned workshop is set to bring together leading minds to chart a sustainable path for Ghana’s gold sector, ensuring that the DGPP continues to serve the country’s economic needs in line with international standards. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Revenue Authority Announces Sweeping VAT Reforms Under New Law
Sweeping changes are on the horizon for Ghana’s Value Added Tax (VAT) system, following the passage of the Value Added Tax Act, 2025 (Act 1151), which will come into force on January 1, 2026. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) announced the reforms in a notice to VAT-registered taxpayers and the public, promising a new era of simplicity, equity, and efficiency in tax administration. According to the GRA, the new law introduces a host of measures designed to ease the tax burden on businesses and households while boosting compliance. Among the most notable changes is a significant increase in the VAT registration threshold for businesses dealing in goods, from GHS 200,000 to GHS 750,000. This move is expected to bring substantial relief to micro and small-scale enterprises, reducing their compliance burden and freeing them from VAT obligations. In a further effort to streamline the tax regime, the Act abolishes the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, eliminating an extra cost that had been introduced during the pandemic era. The National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) and the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) levy have also been re-coupled, meaning businesses can now claim input tax credits on these levies. By treating both NHIL and GETFund as deductible input taxes, the GRA aims to enhance fairness and transparency throughout the VAT system. A major highlight of the reforms is a reduction of the VAT rate to 20 percent, a measure specifically intended to lighten the load for households and businesses and stimulate economic activity. The VAT Flat Rate Scheme (VFRS) has also been abolished, paving the way for a unified VAT structure that the Authority says will be more transparent and easier to administer. The GRA emphasized that these reforms are designed to simplify the VAT system, promote equity, improve administrative efficiency, and encourage voluntary compliance. Taxpayers and professionals, including employers, accountants, auditors, importers, exporters, clearing agents, and tax consultants, are urged to familiarize themselves with the new provisions ahead of implementation in January 2026. For further information, the Authority advised the public to consult their nearest Taxpayer Service Centre or reach out via the GRA’s toll-free lines, WhatsApp platforms, or official email channels. Reaffirming its dedication to integrity, fairness, and service, the GRA underscored that these reforms are part of broader efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation in support of national development, under the theme “Our Taxes, Our Future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board Sets the Record Straight: No Losses, Only Surpluses in 2025
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has taken the stage to address swirling allegations about the institution’s finances. The rumors were damning, claims that GoldBod had suffered a colossal US$214 million deficit. But Mr. Gyamfi was resolute in his response, labeling the allegations inaccurate and misleading. With clarity, he explained that GoldBod, established in April 2025, was not a profit-driven public institution. Instead, it was designed to declare surpluses. He revealed that, according to the unaudited management accounts, GoldBod recorded an impressive revenue of over GHS960 million in 2025, while keeping total expenditures below GHS20 million. The numbers told a different story than the rumors suggested; far from a deficit, GoldBod was on track to post a substantial surplus—estimated between GHS700 million and GHS800 million for the year. As the conversation dug deeper, Mr. Gyamfi addressed another claim: that any potential losses from the Gold-for-Reserves programme had been quietly transferred to the Bank of Ghana’s books. He dismissed this idea as illogical, pointing out that the Gold-for-Reserves scheme was started by the Bank of Ghana in 2022 and all related transactions were always recorded by the central bank, not by GoldBod. Mr. Gyamfi traced the roots of GoldBod, noting that it inherited its structures from the former Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) and underwent necessary reforms to ensure transparency. Despite the transition, he emphasized that every Cedi received from the Bank of Ghana had been fully accounted for, with the equivalent value delivered in gold and only approved agency fees earned in the process. To put any lingering doubts to rest, Mr. Gyamfi concluded by announcing that an external audit by the Auditor-General was already underway and expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026. The results, he promised, would publicly confirm GoldBod’s financial performance and set the record straight once and for all. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Swallowed by Drugs: Upper East NACOC Commander Outlines Education, Community Partnerships, and Open-Door Policy in Fight Against Substance Abuse
In the thought-provoking documentary “Swallowed by Drugs,” produced by Ngamegblam Chidozie Stephen of Apexnewsgh, Mr. Saeed Abdul-Aziz, Upper East Regional Commander of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), offers a comprehensive look into the region’s ongoing battle with youth drug and alcohol abuse. His remarks highlight not only the commission’s multi-pronged approach but also the crucial role of public engagement, community partnerships, and a compassionate, open-door policy. Commander Abdul-Aziz explains that a core pillar of NACOC’s strategy is public education and awareness campaigns, which are regularly conducted across the region. “We go to schools, FM stations, churches, mosques, and communities to educate the public about the dangers and effects of drug use. We believe that when we start teaching at the basic and secondary school levels, the youth become aware and are less likely to fall into substance abuse,” he states. The commission’s dedicated team works tirelessly, making sure that as many young people as possible are sensitized to the risks of drugs. He further describes how NACOC encourages youth engagement in positive activities as a form of prevention. “We organize sports and cultural events to keep young people involved and busy. The more they are engaged in healthy activities, the less likely they are to be influenced by peers to experiment with drugs,” Abdul-Aziz notes. Recognizing that the fight against drug abuse cannot be won alone, the commander underscores the importance of partnerships. “We actively collaborate with NGOs, religious bodies, and other stakeholders. The work is too large for any one agency, so we reach out and work together to strengthen our impact.” These partnerships extend to enforcement, with NACOC working alongside the Ghana Police Service, Immigration Service, and community leaders to prevent drug trafficking and clamp down on those seeking to bring illicit substances into the region. On the enforcement front, Abdul-Aziz reveals that while cannabis remains the most commonly abused substance in the Upper East, there is a worrying rise in the use of opioids and other synthetic drugs. He notes, “We make a lot of arrests every year, particularly targeting those trafficking drugs into the region. Our teams are vigilant and dedicated to reducing the flow and availability of these substances.” Despite these successes, Abdul-Aziz acknowledges that not all drug users are criminals; many are vulnerable individuals in need of help. “The law now recognizes that substance abusers are, in many cases, sick people who need support, not just punishment. When we encounter such individuals, we counsel them and, where necessary, refer them to rehabilitation centers.” He emphasizes the importance of early intervention and urges families, teachers, and community leaders to bring individuals struggling with addiction to NACOC for help. “Our doors are open. We do not seek to punish, but to help people recover and reintegrate into society.” Commander Abdul-Aziz also addresses concerns about fear and stigma, particularly regarding NACOC officers now wearing uniforms. “Our uniforms should not frighten anyone away. We are here to help, not just enforce. Parents, teachers, and employers should feel comfortable bringing anyone who needs help to us. We will not arrest them but rather support their recovery.” He further appeals to community elders and chiefs, asking for their cooperation and hospitality when NACOC teams come to engage with communities. “Many people who abuse drugs do so out of ignorance of their effects. When we are given the chance to educate, we can make a real difference.” While enforcement and education are vital, Abdul-Aziz stresses that the fight against substance abuse is a collective responsibility. “We urge all stakeholders, government agencies, NGOs, religious institutions, community leaders, and families, to join us. Every child is at risk, and if we ignore the issue, it may eventually affect us all. Working together, we can create a safer environment and reduce crime and conflict fueled by substance abuse.” He concludes with a message of hope and unity: “With combined effort, open dialogue, and compassion, we can save our youth from being swallowed by drugs and secure a brighter future for the Upper East Region.” Through the words of Commander Saeed Abdul-Aziz, “Swallowed by Drugs” highlights not only the challenges but also the proactive steps being taken to turn the tide against youth substance abuse, reminding all that the path to a safer society begins with education, empathy, and collective action. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Swallowed by Drugs: Upper East Youth President Demands Galamsey-Style Action Against Rising Youth Drug Abuse
In the acclaimed documentary “Swallowed by Drugs,” produced by Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen of Apexnewsgh, Mr. Francis Adingo, President of the Upper East Youth Association, delivers a passionate and urgent call to action on the growing crisis of drug and alcohol abuse among the youth in the Upper East Region. His words echo the anguish of parents, the frustration of community leaders, and the deep concern of citizens witnessing a generation on the brink. Mr. Adingo likens the menace of substance abuse to that of illegal mining, commonly known as GALAMSEY, drawing a parallel between the fight to save Ghana’s rivers and the need to save its youth. “Substance abuse is actually a major, major social canker,” he insists. “Just as we are fighting to protect our land and water bodies from GALAMSEY, we must put the same energy into protecting our youth from drugs and alcohol. What good is it to save the rivers if there is no one left to drink from them?” He paints a poignant picture of parental heartbreak: mothers and fathers who have sacrificed to raise their children, only to see their dreams dashed by addiction. “It pierces the heart of parents to see you give birth, carry a baby for nine months, raise a child up, send a child to school, and then watch helplessly as they drop out or succumb to drugs,” Adingo says. “Parents are crying day in and day out for a solution.” Highlighting the centrality of the youth to Ghana’s future, Adingo underscores that both male and female youth are the backbone of national productivity and promise. “The strength of every nation, the productivity of every nation depends on the youth,” he declares. “If we don’t address this, we are mortgaging the future of our country.” Mr. Adingo does not shy away from assigning blame or demanding accountability. He commends the National Police Special Task Force for their efforts nationwide, but asks, “What is the duty of the Narcotic Control Board? What is the duty of the local assemblies?” He argues that local authorities know where substance abusers gather, yet enforcement is often lax. “Assemblymen know these people. Law enforcement agencies have the intelligence, but why can’t they crack down?” he asks. The lack of action, he believes, allows the problem to fester, even among professionals. “Some are even uniformed men and women, nurses. My own brother was a nurse but lost his way to substance abuse. Today, he is no more.” Adingo is also critical of traditional authorities, lamenting the decline of discipline and community responsibility. “In the past, when you committed a crime, the chief would discipline you. Today, discipline has been abandoned. Chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, many have left us, the youth, to our fate.” This abdication, he observes, has weakened community bonds and accountability. He points to another serious obstacle: the erosion of trust in law enforcement. “You tell a police officer about drug dealers, and suddenly your name is out in the community. People are afraid to provide information because their safety is at risk.” Adingo argues that for the fight against substance abuse to succeed, whistleblowers must be protected, and communities must feel safe to cooperate with authorities. Adingo’s analysis is multidimensional, recognizing that substance abuse does not exist in a vacuum. He links it to poverty, regional disparities in education, and the lack of meaningful employment. “The poverty nature of our region is compounded by drug abuse and the wide gap between the South and North in terms of education,” he notes. “Until we sit down as youth, elders, opinion leaders, and chiefs, until we take collective responsibility, the Upper East is not going anywhere.” He calls for increased investment in youth development: “When more factories are built, when more incentives are given to agriculture and youth employment, the youth will be engaged. When you get yourself so engaged, you won’t have time for these things.” Adingo urges the government, civil society organizations, and all stakeholders to join forces. “We need civil society organizations, we need volunteers… it’s a canker. What do we do to come together to make sure we solve these issues?” A particularly haunting aspect of the substance abuse crisis, Adingo says, is its ripple effect. Addiction tears apart families, fuels domestic abuse, and erodes community values. “Some parents have lost hope in their children. Rehabilitation homes exist, but the fees are often too high for struggling families. We need to make rehabilitation more accessible.” He shares stories of young people who have turned their lives around through such centers, emphasizing that with discipline and support, recovery is possible. Adingo is also troubled by the normalization of substance abuse. “You see women, men, even parents, spending time in drinking spots as if it’s normal. Some die quietly in their sleep, the substances having replaced food and family.” He describes a tragic scene: “A young man demands money from his aging father for drugs; when refused, he chases him with a cutlass.” The problem, he warns, is not isolated. “If you think it is only your neighbor’s family afflicted today, tomorrow it will come to yours. When they finish destroying one community, they move to the next, recruiting more peers into addiction.” Adingo’s call to action is resolute and inclusive. “All of us, pastors, imams, assemblymen, youth groups, civil society organizations, politicians, chiefs, we all have a role to play. We must bring back discipline, support our communities, and not be afraid to speak hard truths.” He concludes on a note of hope, sharing the story of Atinbila, a young man who overcame addiction with community support and rehabilitation. “When we put in the effort, when communities rally around their youth, when we support those fighting addiction, there is hope. We can build a respectable, productive society so that tomorrow, our sons and daughters can live in peace.” Mr. Francis Adingo’s voice in “Swallowed by Drugs” is a clarion call. It is a call for unity, courage, and decisive action, a









