'I'm not being paid for this' - Medikal on drug abuse ambassador role

Rapper Medikal has indicated that he will not receive any payment for serving as an ambassador for the National Youth Authority’s “Red Means Stop” campaign, an initiative aimed at tackling the abuse of the synthetic drug known as “Red” among young people.

Speaking at the official announcement of the appointment on March 12, 2026, the rapper explained that his decision to support the initiative was driven by a personal desire to make a meaningful contribution to society.

According to him, he took time to reflect on how he could use his brand in a way that would create a lasting impact, particularly in helping to reduce substance abuse among young people in the future.

Medikal appointed ambassador for NYA's 'Red Means Stop' campaign

“I was like, what can I do with my brand that will be so impactful that in the next 20 to 30 years I can sit down and be like, this is the reason there’s a reduction in the use of drugs and substances? I want people to know, especially Ghanaians, that I’m not being paid for this. This is out of my own will to do something to help society and try to be impactful,” Medikal said.

The announcement of his role was made on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment by the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo. The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, Osman Ayariga.

The “Red Means Stop” campaign forms part of a broader national effort to address the growing concern over substance abuse among the youth. Authorities say the initiative seeks to raise awareness about the dangers associated with the use of synthetic drugs such as “Red,” which has increasingly become a concern within some youth circles.

Through the campaign, the National Youth Authority plans to use education, advocacy and public engagement to inform young people about the risks of drug abuse while encouraging them to adopt healthier and more responsible lifestyles.

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I am not being paid for this; it is entirely from my own mind and will — Ghanaian Rapper Medikal reveals as he shares his commitment to the ‘Red Means Stop’ anti-drug campaign

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