Accra: Mr. Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff, has assured that the Government of Ghana will relentlessly pursue drug traffickers and criminal networks seeking to undermine Ghana's future through illicit drug trade and substance abuse. He emphasized that the government would not permit criminal enterprises to endanger communities, destroy the potential of young people, and compromise national security through drug trafficking activities.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Debrah made these remarks at the International Day Against Drug Abuse And Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day) 2026, held in Accra. The event was themed 'The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.' He noted that drug abuse and illicit trafficking had become a significant threat affecting homes, schools, workplaces, and communities across the country. The Chief of Staff highlighted that families were struggling with the impact of addiction, while teachers and parents witnessed promising young people losing their future to substance abuse.
Mr. Debrah stated that the global drug problem had evolved into a major public health, development, and security challenge, impacting the productivity and opportunities of young people. He emphasized that Ghana's greatest asset is its people, especially the youth, and safeguarding them from drugs must remain a national priority. He added that every young person lost to addiction represents a lost opportunity for national development.
The government is committed to a balanced approach combining prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, recovery, and law enforcement. Security and intelligence agencies are actively working to disrupt and dismantle criminal syndicates involved in drug trafficking. Mr. Debrah noted that organized criminal groups are exploiting technology and operating across borders, necessitating an intelligence-driven, coordinated, and innovative response from Ghana.
He affirmed that the government, under President Mahama's leadership, would not allow criminal enterprises to compromise national security. While the government remains uncompromising against traffickers, it also shows compassion towards those battling addiction, considering them victims deserving of treatment and rehabilitation.
Prevention is crucial, Mr. Debrah stated, calling on parents, teachers, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, and government institutions to collectively protect the youth from substance abuse. He stressed the importance of creating opportunities through education, skills training, and employment as effective tools in reducing vulnerability to drugs.
In addition, Mr. Debrah highlighted the need for stronger international cooperation due to the transnational nature of drug trafficking networks. He urged students to guard their future against drugs and encouraged those struggling with addiction to seek help. The government's determination is to secure a future where every Ghanaian youth can fulfill their potential free from the threat of drugs and criminality.