“Ghana Commits to Fighting Global Drug Problem – Akufo-Addo”

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the global drug problem, acknowledging the challenges posed by drug trafficking and abuse. In a statement read on his behalf by the Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, the President noted that Ghana has taken steps to address the issue, including the enactment of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019).

This legislation treats substance use disorders as a public health issue and provides for treatment, rehabilitation, and alternative livelihoods. In collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Ghana launched the 2024 World Drug Report in Accra, Ghana, as part of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The event, held on June 26, was themed “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention” and seeks to raise awareness and intensify efforts to prevent drug trafficking and abuse. Hon. Henry Quartey noted that Ghana has not been spared from the impact of drug trafficking, drug abuse, and attendant health problems.

However, he acknowledged that Ghana is committed to implementing international and domestic drug policies, particularly for the health and safety of the Ghanaian society. The Minister pledged the government’s support to provide necessary resources to the Narcotics Control Commission and other security agencies to enforce drug laws and ensure public safety.

He called on Ghanaians, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, traditional authorities, and non-governmental organisations to support law enforcement agencies in the fight against the drug canker. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, H. E. Charles Abani, commended Ghana for its immense partnership in addressing the drug menace in Africa, and reiterated the support of the United Nations in collaborating with Ghana to champion the course against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.