The anti-drug crusaders during the walk.
The leadership of the Adabraka Zongo community has called on the public to stop discriminating against persons struggling with substance abuse, saying such treatment discourages them from seeking help.
Speaking at the Adabraka Zongo Durbar Health Walk themed “Education and Sensitisation: Dangers of Drug Abuse,” Faisal Ibrahim Cisse, Advisor to the Zongo Chief, said discrimination is one of the main reasons why many young people are unable to seek help.
“Discrimination has deterred a lot of youth from seeking help. But here at Adabraka Zongo, we have a conducive environment to welcome those who are drug addicts and are seeking help to end it. We have helped many of them and have also aided them to get jobs to cater for themselves,” he said.
Mr. Cisse further stated that the palace is working with vocational training institutes within the community to enroll not only persons addicted to drugs, but also other youth interested in acquiring skills for a living. He said this initiative will help end all forms of social vices within the community.
The Chief of Adabraka Zongo, Alhaji Abdul Mumuni Bagigah, also reiterated his commitment to fighting drug addiction in the community, and called on corporate Ghana and other stakeholders to support the campaign.
Speaking on the growing concern, Alhaji Bagigah noted that drug abuse, especially among the youth, has become a major threat to the peace, health, and future of Adabraka Zongo.
He warned that Ghana risks losing a generation of potential leaders, artisans, and entrepreneurs if the trend is not checked.
Alhaji Bagigah therefore called on corporate organisations, NGOs, religious leaders, and government agencies to partner with the Zongo leadership to provide education, rehabilitation, skills training, and alternative livelihood opportunities for the youth.
The Chief emphasised that a collective approach is needed to protect the youth, secure the future of Adabraka Zongo, and build a healthier, more responsible generation.
By Prince Fiifi Yorke