The Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference has expressed concern over the growing abuse of tramadol, marijuana, and other readily accessible drugs in the country. According to the Bishops, the abuse of these substances is having a devastating impact on the country's youth and requires greater attention as part of the national response to drug trafficking and abuse. They argue that the fight against drugs should not focus solely on cocaine and other high-profile narcotics.

Speaking to Citi News, President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi, emphasized the urgent need for action. He noted that the increasing use of tramadol, marijuana, and other drugs among young people is destroying many lives. The Bishops' Conference is urging authorities to strengthen enforcement against the illegal supply of drugs while expanding efforts to prevent substance abuse among the youth.

Most Rev. Gyamfi called for stronger laws and enforcement measures to restrict the importation and illegal sale of such substances. He stated that the national response must recognize the scale of abuse of substances that are readily available to young people. The Bishops argue that the fight against drugs should address substances that are easily accessible in communities, not just high-profile narcotics.

The Bishops' call forms part of their broader concerns about the growing drug menace and its implications for young people and communities across the country. They are urging authorities to take a comprehensive approach to address the issue. According to the Bishops, the current focus on high-profile narcotics is insufficient, and more needs to be done to address the widespread abuse of readily accessible drugs.

The Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference is not alone in its concerns about the growing drug menace. The issue has been highlighted by various stakeholders, including government officials and civil society organizations. The government has taken steps to address the issue, including seizing large quantities of tramadol tablets and other narcotics.

Most Rev. Gyamfi's comments were made in the context of the country's ongoing efforts to address the drug menace. The government has established task forces to tackle the issue, and there are ongoing efforts to strengthen enforcement and prevent substance abuse. The Catholic Bishops' Conference is welcoming these efforts but is urging greater action to address the scale of the problem.

The issue of drug abuse has significant implications for Ghana's youth and communities. The Catholic Bishops' Conference is emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address the issue, including stronger laws, enforcement measures, and prevention efforts. The Bishops are urging authorities to take urgent action to address the growing drug menace and its devastating impact on the country's youth.

Key points

  • Catholic Bishops in Ghana call for stronger action against tramadol and marijuana abuse.
  • The abuse of readily accessible drugs is having a devastating impact on Ghana's youth.
  • The Bishops are urging authorities to strengthen enforcement and prevention efforts to address the growing drug menace.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.