The Bono East Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, traditional authorities, families and communities to combat drug abuse, stressing that collective action remains the most effective way to address the growing threat of illicit drugs.
The call was made during the climax of activities marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at Amoma in the Kintampo South Municipality under the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, and Innovative Responses.”
The event brought together traditional authorities, municipal officials, security agencies, students, community members and other stakeholders. It featured drama performances, public education and advocacy sessions highlighting the dangers of illicit drug abuse and the need for community involvement in preventing substance abuse.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief of Amoma, Nana Dwomoh Ameyaw IV, described drug abuse as one of the greatest threats to the future of young people and the development of the country.
“We all agree that drug abuse and the use of hard substances are harmful to our health and the development of our society and country. We have seen many young people lose their future because of the use of illicit drugs. This is unfortunate, not only for the individuals and their families but also for the nation as a whole.” He stated.
He observed that many people who become addicted to illicit drugs are unable to contribute productively to national development and often become involved in criminal and anti-social activities.
Nana Dwomoh Ameyaw IV commended the Narcotics Control Commission for selecting Amoma to host the climax of this year’s celebration, explaining that the decision should not be interpreted to mean that the community has a higher prevalence of drug abuse than other areas.
“I would like to use this opportunity to commend the Narcotics Control Commission for bringing this important program to Kintampo South, specifically to Amoma. However, this does not necessarily mean that drug abuse is more prevalent in Amoma than in other communities.” He noted.
Nana appealed to residents to support the Commission by educating relatives, friends and neighbours on the dangers of illicit drugs and becoming ambassadors in the fight against substance abuse.
Delivering an address on behalf of the Kintampo South Municipal Assembly and the Bono East Regional Minster, the District Chief Executive, Hon. Zurri Wilfred, explained that combating illicit drugs requires the active participation of every citizen.
He expressed concern over the absence of a rehabilitation center in the Bono East Region, describing it as a major challenge in the fight against drug abuse.
“I want to reiterate that the fight against illicit drugs is the responsibility of all of us, not only the Narcotics Control Commission or the government. Many of the social problems we face today are linked to drug abuse. We must all advise our family members, friends, and neighbours, and become ambassadors in the campaign against illicit drugs.
“Currently, there is no rehabilitation center in the Bono East Region. The reality is that no single Metropolitan, Municipal or District Assembly has the financial capacity to establish one on its own. I will therefore relay this concern to our Regional Minister, Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi. I am confident that our hardworking Regional Minister will take up the matter and support efforts to establish a rehabilitation center for the region.” He stated.
The Bono East Regional Commander of the Narcotics Control Commission, SNCO Portia Abuwie Demuyakor, on her part explained that the community durbar marked the climax of a series of activities organized by the Commission to commemorate World Drug Day.
She disclosed that Amoma was selected to host the climax after previous community engagements and intelligence gathered by the Commission.
“We are gathered here today to climax the observance of World Drug Day. This is the major activity undertaken by the Command after the float and educational seminar.
“This is not the first time we have visited Amoma. We have previously conducted a community outreach program here, and based on the intelligence and information we gathered, we considered it appropriate to hold the climax of this year’s celebration in the community.” She explained.
According to SNCO Demuyakor, the programme was designed to educate residents, particularly young people, on the devastating effects of illicit drug abuse through practical demonstrations and drama performances.
“Today’s program is intended to educate the public on the harmful effects of illicit drugs and drug abuse, particularly on the youth, as demonstrated through the various drama performances we have witnessed today.” She stated.
The Regional Commander revealed that the Commission has continued to engage government on the urgent need for a rehabilitation center in the Bono East Region and expressed optimism that plans are underway to establish one.
While awaiting the establishment of a regional facility, she said NACOC has partnered with a private rehabilitation center at Akumadan to provide treatment for persons battling addiction.
“We have engaged extensively with the government on the need for a rehabilitation center in the Bono East Region, and we are aware that the government has taken steps towards establishing one to strengthen the fight against drug abuse.
“In the meantime, we are partnering with a private rehabilitation facility at Akumadan, where we refer individuals who require rehabilitation services.” She disclosed.
SNCO Demuyakor further explained that the Commission’s Counselling, Rehabilitation and Social Reintegration Unit continues to provide professional support to individuals struggling with substance abuse.
“In addition, the Narcotics Control Commission has a Counselling, Rehabilitation and Social Reintegration Unit. We have professional counsellors who provide guidance and support to individuals involved in drug abuse, helping them to stop before they become addicted and assisting those already affected to begin the journey to recovery.” She disclosed.
The climax brought to an end weeks of activities organized by the Bono East Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission, including radio discussions, community sensitization programmes, an awareness float through the principal streets of Techiman and a seminar for Senior High School counsellors, all aimed at promoting a drug-free society and encouraging early intervention for persons affected by substance abuse.
Source: Newspyramid.com
