Weija Gbawe MP sounds alarm over rising drug abuse

The Member of Parliament for Weija Gbawe Constituency, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has raised serious concerns about the alarming rise in drug abuse among Ghanaian youth, particularly the misuse of Tramadol 225mg, commonly known as “RED.”

Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Shaib highlighted the devastating impact of this trend on the country’s young population, noting that many are losing their potential, energy, and creativity to addiction.

According to the MP, many young people battling addiction face significant barriers to accessing treatment due to the high cost of rehabilitation services.

He stressed that the lack of affordable and accessible support systems worsens the crisis, especially among unemployed youth, school dropouts, and disadvantaged children, including orphans.

Shaib commended individuals who have helped spotlight the issue, including journalist Godwin Asediba, who produced a documentary on drug abuse, and his constituency youth organizer, Kwame Bekoe, who launched the “Wonim RED” campaign.

He also acknowledged the support of his colleague, the Member of Parliament for Suhum.

As the Second Deputy Minority Whip, Shaib urged Parliament to treat the issue with urgency and called for the development of comprehensive policies and interventions focused on prevention, rehabilitation, and the reintegration of affected youth into society.