The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, has warned the youth against the use of illicit drugs, describing drug abuse as a major threat to health, social life, and the future of young people.
According to the Minister, while the government has put measures in place to support drug addicts through rehabilitation services, prevention remains the most effective solution. He stressed that staying away from drugs entirely is the safest and best choice for the youth.
Dr Amoakohene reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating the sale and use of hard drugs and urged young people involved in drug abuse to desist immediately. He also encouraged addicts who are willing to change to seek help from rehabilitation centres to protect their health and secure a better future.
“As a young person, one does not need any booster to perform a task. Any drug taken should be prescribed by a health professional. Unfortunately, we are often tempted to experiment with drugs in our youth, which poses a threat to our health. This is why rehabilitation centres have been established to help addicts who are ready to overcome their addiction. Staying completely away from drugs is, however, the safest approach,” he said
The Minister made these remarks on the sidelines of a donation exercise by the FrankCare Foundation, during which assorted items, including soft drinks, toiletries, packs of bottled water, rice, and other essentials, were presented, alongside a cash donation of ten thousand Ghana cedis each to the Edwenase Rehabilitation Centre and the Kumasi Cheshire Home.
Speaking after the donation, Dr Amoakohene explained that the gesture forms part of efforts to ensure that vulnerable groups are not left out of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.