Interior Minister raises alarm over rising drug abuse among Ghanaian youth

Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, Minister for the Interior and Member of Parliament for Asawase, raised concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among young people in Ghana, warning that "the trend poses a serious threat to the country's future." He spoke during an engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders in Ho as part of a two-day working visit to the Volta Region. According to Mr. Muntaka, "the level of drug usage by our youth is getting to an alarming proportion."

Mr. Muntaka disclosed that security investigations have identified parts of the Volta Region as areas where the cultivation of narcotic substances, particularly marijuana, remains prevalent. He rejected arguments that the cultivation and sale of narcotic substances can be justified as a means of livelihood, stating, "We cannot justify illegal activities simply because people depend on them for survival." He warned that Ghana's international reputation could be damaged if authorities fail to effectively address the cultivation and trafficking of illegal drugs, noting that some neighbouring countries have already raised concerns about marijuana originating from Ghana.

Mr. Muntaka assured residents that government, through the Regional Security Council and relevant state institutions, would intensify efforts to curb the cultivation, distribution, and abuse of narcotic substances. Volta Regional Minister James Gunu pledged the continued support of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) in promoting development and social cohesion.