Catholic Bishops drop warning over rampant drug abuse ruining Ghanaian youth

The Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference has issued an urgent call for decisive national action to address the widespread abuse of tramadol, marijuana, and other accessible substances.

Speaking on behalf of the clergy, President of the Conference Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi highlighted that substance abuse is destroying young lives in towns and villages across the nation.

He emphasized that national anti-drug strategies must reorient their focus toward readily available drugs rather than concentrating solely on high-profile narcotics like cocaine.

According to the Bishops, substances like tramadol, 'Red', and marijuana are easily purchased off store shelves, posing an immediate threat to local communities.

Most Rev. Gyamfi called on Parliament and regulatory authorities to enact stricter legislation and tighten border enforcement.

He urged law enforcement bodies to completely restrict the importation of such pharmaceuticals and clear illicit supplies off market shelves.

The clergy noted that prosecuting street couriers alone remains inadequate if the broader distribution networks and financial backers escape legal scrutiny.

In addition to law enforcement, the Conference advocated for expanding medical, psychological, and spiritual rehabilitation support for individuals struggling with addiction.

They stressed that young victims of substance abuse should receive structured medical care and social reintegration assistance rather than being treated strictly as criminals.

The Bishops urged inter-agency cooperation among the Police Service, NACOC, Customs, and educational institutions to dismantle illicit drug pipelines and protect youth.