Accra: Daylight Event, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has launched the 2026 World Heart Day Campaign, beginning with sensitising school children about the dangers of substance abuse. Mrs Sofia Arko, the Tema West Education Director, highlighted the growing prevalence of substance abuse, specifically mentioning tramadol, cannabis, and shisha among young people. She stressed the importance of early prevention, stating that the seeds of heart-related health issues in adulthood are often sown during childhood due to drug use.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs Arko emphasised the responsibility of adults to protect children as they are the future leaders of the nation. The Education Directorate plans to form anti-drug clubs in schools, offer counselling, and collaborate with health professionals to conduct regular health screenings for students. She expressed appreciation for Daylight Event's initiative themed 'Say No to Drugs, Don't Hurt the Heart,' aimed at educating basic and senior high school students about the detrimental effects of illicit drug use.
Mrs Arko urged students to safeguard their hearts and future by resisting peer pressure and rejecting illicit drugs to ensure healthy and productive lives. Mrs Judith Azuma, CEO of Restored and Renewed Rehab Centre, remarked that drug addiction should be regarded as a medical condition rather than a moral failing. She noted the unique challenges women face in addiction due to family responsibilities and encouraged parents to seek professional medical help for children struggling with addiction rather than isolating them at home.
Nana Yaw Opoku Danso, the Director of Events at Daylight Event, shared a personal account of the impact of substance abuse on an individual's life and mental health. He appealed to parents and community leaders not to bail out young people arrested for drug-related offenses but to support their rehabilitation journey.
Planned activities for World Heart Day on September 29 include a street walk on September 11 with students from Tema Communities 2 and 5 to raise public awareness on drug abuse. This will be followed by the 'Tema Fitness Fiesta' on September 27, which will feature an exercise session and health screening with participation from local keep-fit clubs, corporate organisations, and personnel from the Police, Army, Navy, and Ghana National Fire Service. The campaign will conclude on September 29 with a school conference where health experts and civic leaders will engage directly with students.