The Minister of Health, Dr. Richard Anane, has reiterated the determination of the government to stem the incidence of drug trafficking by dealing ruthlessly with those engaged in the trade.
He noted that drug abuse renders the youth incapable of becoming future leaders. These were contained in a speech read on his behalf by his deputy, Mr. Moses Anim Baah at the World Drug Day celebration. The day, 26th June has been "set aside for all nations to highlight the global awareness of the serious threat posed to the world, by the scourge of drug abuse and the menace of illicit trafficking."
He considered this year's theme "Sports against Drugs" necessary because it directly aimed at the arena where drug abuse is notoriously centred. He said, the youth in all spheres of sports engage in drug abuse so that they can emerge the best, a phenomenon which increases the number of youth resorting the use of drugs. Dr. Anane remarked that the battle against drugs should not rest on government alone but rather a concerted effort involving all members of society - NGOs, corporate bodies, individuals and parents. He also called for a mechanism by which parents and drug dependants would appreciate the importance of constantly seeking the assistance of medical experts.
In a related development the UN Secretary General, Mr. Kofi Annan in a speech read on his behalf has said that "the scourge of drug abuse spares no country, rich or poor." He therefore asked that more emphasis should be laid on reducing the demand for illegal drugs. The emphasis according to him should be on the youth who are more vulnerable.
The Minister of Education, Prof. Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi on his part lamented the seven final year students of Ghana National College who were dismissed for smoking Indian hemp in the school adding that no student engaged in such practices should be spared disciplinary measures.Every possible effort should be used to protect and safeguard the youth, as they are a precious asset of the state.
He announced that drug prevention education will be added to school activities and asked teachers to equip the students with functional information.
