Accra: The Vision for Alternative Development (VALD), a non-profit non-governmental organization, has marked the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by urging the government to implement effective policies to counter emerging drug challenges. This year's theme emphasizes innovative responses to ongoing drug issues and new challenges.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event highlights the evolving nature of drugs and the increasing complexity of substance production, underscoring the urgent need for evidence-based interventions. Mr. Issah Ali, Executive Director of VALD, noted that drugs continue to impact individuals, families, and communities worldwide, with young people being particularly vulnerable.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) indicates that drug use is on the rise, with synthetic drug markets expanding rapidly, posing significant public health and safety challenges. In West Africa, the emergence of new psychoactive substances and harmful drug mixtures is raising concerns about the health, social, and economic impacts, especially on young people.
The statement from VALD emphasizes the necessity of strengthening prevention systems, improving treatment services, and coordinating responses to address both current and emerging threats. It stresses that responses should not only focus on treatment but also on building resilient individuals, families, and communities.
Prevention, treatment, recovery, and social reintegration should be interconnected elements of a comprehensive public health response. VALD advocates for prevention as a cost-effective strategy to reduce drug-related harm and promote sustainable development. Young people should be active partners in prevention efforts, while families, schools, community leaders, civil society, and government institutions play crucial roles in creating supportive environments.
The statement also calls for increased public awareness of the health, social, and economic consequences of drug use. Expanding access to prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery services is essential and is framed as a human rights issue.
Collaboration among government institutions, civil society, academia, media, traditional authorities, community leaders, and development partners is vital to address the root causes of substance use and reduce vulnerability through community-based prevention education and youth empowerment initiatives.
VALD concludes by urging policymakers and implementing institutions to prioritize prevention, invest in recovery, and support evidence-based policies that prevent drug-related harms while promoting health, development, social well-being, and human rights. The organization envisions building safer, healthier, and more resilient communities where individuals can thrive free from the harm of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.