A Call to Save Youth from Drug Abuse
The Ahafo Regional Directorate of the National Youth Authority (NYA) has intensified the fight against drug abuse among young people with the rollout of the “RED MEANS STOP” campaign, aimed at discouraging substance abuse and promoting responsible lifestyles among the youth, particularly students in Senior High Schools and TVET institutions.
The campaign, which forms part of a nationwide initiative by the NYA, seeks to address the growing concern of drug use among young people under the slogan R.E.D — Reject, Educate, Defend. It encourages the youth to reject harmful substances, educate themselves and others on the dangers of drug abuse, and defend their future by making positive and informed life choices.
Speaking on the campaign, the Ahafo Regional Director of the NYA, Mr. Sowah Nicholas, described drug abuse as a serious threat to the development and future of Ghana’s youth. He noted that substances such as tramadol, cannabis, codeine, nicotine vapes, energy drink mixtures and local concoctions popularly known as “monkey tail” are increasingly finding their way into schools and communities.
According to him, peer pressure, curiosity, academic stress, weak parental supervision and negative media influence are among the major factors pushing young people into drug use. He stressed that drug abuse not only affects the health of young people but also undermines their academic performance, discipline and long-term prospects.
Mr. Nicholas explained that the RED MEANS STOP campaign focuses on education, counselling and community engagement to curb the menace. He said the NYA is collaborating with schools, parents, traditional authorities, religious bodies, security agencies and health institutions to intensify sensitisation programmes across the region.
He further called on school authorities to strengthen guidance and counselling units and create safe spaces where students can freely share their challenges without fear of stigma. Parents and guardians, he added, must also take responsibility by monitoring their children’s behaviour and maintaining open communication at home.
The Regional Director emphasized that young people already struggling with drug use should be supported rather than condemned, noting that early counselling, rehabilitation and mentorship can help them recover and reintegrate into society.
To ensure effective regional coverage, the programme was organised into three operational zones, involving various Senior High, Technical and TVET schools across the region. Zone One covers Asunafo North and Asunafo South, Zone Two comprises Asutifi North and Asutifi South, while Zone Three includes Tano North and Tano South municipalities.
The NYA reiterated its commitment to protecting the youth and called on all stakeholders to support the campaign to ensure a drug-free and productive generation. The Authority urged the public to embrace the RED MEANS STOP message and work collectively to safeguard the future of Ghana’s youth.
