Ghana is taking a new approach to drug policy, prioritizing public health and human rights.
The Narcotic Control Commission (NACOC) Director-General, Mr. Kenneth Adu-Amanfoh, emphasizes a shift away from traditional incarceration towards treatment and rehabilitation for people with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs).
Moving from Punishment to Public Health
Mr. Adu-Amanfoh acknowledges that the previous focus on incarceration proved ineffective. The Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020 reflects this shift, aligning with international best practices.
A Pilot Project for West Africa
A five-day workshop organized by NACOC in Accra brings together experts from West Africa. This pilot project, initiated by Enhancing Africa’s Response to Transnational Organised Crime (ENACT), aims to establish drug treatment as an alternative to incarceration for those struggling with addiction.
The High Cost of Incarceration
Mr. Adu-Amanfoh highlights that globally, an estimated 18% of prisoners (around 2 million people) are incarcerated for drug-related offenses, often low-level users or those with SUDs. This approach is seen as counter-productive and a waste of resources.
Regional and Global Support
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) supports this initiative. Resident Representative Baba Wakil Gana states their support for drug treatment centers and trained healthcare personnel to address SUDs across the region.
Building a Roadmap for Change
The workshop aims to develop a roadmap for implementing the pilot project. This will guide how West African nations integrate treatment programs into their drug policies.
A Global Problem Requires a Global Response
Dr. Christian Ani, Senior Research and Project Coordinator at ENACT, emphasizes the global impact of drug abuse, with over 500,000 deaths annually. This workshop represents a collaborative effort to tackle this critical issue in West Africa.
This shift in focus toward treatment and rehabilitation offers a more humane and effective way to address drug use disorders, aiming to improve public health and support individuals struggling with addiction.
