The Member of Parliament for the Anloga Constituency in the Volta Region, Hon. Richard Kwame Sepe, has raised concern over the growing prevalence of drug abuse among young people, warning that the trend could have serious consequences for the future of Ghana.
Hon. Sepe made the remarks during an interaction with broadcaster Abass Seidu on Fafaa 100.3 FM, where he was invited to provide an update on his support for women farmers in Anyanui through the donation of 10 pumping machines.
The MP expressed concern about what he described as an increasing number of young people engaging in drug abuse and other harmful practices.
He said the situation requires urgent attention from parents, schools, community leaders, government institutions, religious organisations, and other stakeholders before it causes further harm to the lives and prospects of young people.
According to Hon. Sepe, some young people have begun engaging in drug abuse openly in public spaces, a development he described as unacceptable.
He stressed that the fight against drug abuse must be treated as a collective responsibility because the future of the country depends significantly on the younger generation.
Using his own life as an example, the MP said his current position could have been difficult to attain if he had engaged in drug abuse and other harmful activities during his youth.
He therefore urged young people involved in drug abuse to reconsider their choices and avoid substances and behaviours that could negatively affect their health, education, careers, and future opportunities.
Hon. Sepe noted that the effects of drug abuse extend beyond individuals, with families and communities also bearing the consequences. He warned that widespread substance abuse among the youth could ultimately affect national development.
He called for intensified public education and awareness campaigns to help young people understand the risks associated with drug abuse and make informed decisions about their lives.
The MP also appealed to parents and guardians to take a greater interest in the activities of their children and wards, while providing them with guidance, supervision, and emotional support.
He encouraged the youth to channel their energy into productive activities, including education, skills development, entrepreneurship, sports, and other ventures that can help them build sustainable futures.
Hon. Sepe emphasised that protecting young people from drug abuse requires the combined efforts of families, schools, traditional and religious leaders, government agencies, civil society organisations, and communities.
Following the MP’s comments, Fafaa 100.3 FM commended him for speaking strongly against drug abuse and drawing attention to the need to protect young people from practices that could undermine their wellbeing and future.
The station noted that the concerns raised are consistent with the broader efforts of the Duamenefa Foundation to promote the wellbeing, development, and protection of young people.
Hon. Sepe reiterated that Ghana’s future depends largely on the youth and urged them to make responsible choices, avoid harmful practices, and focus on activities that will contribute to their personal development and the progress of the country.
He concluded by calling on all stakeholders to intensify efforts to combat drug abuse and create a safer environment where young people can grow, develop their potential, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
By Hutor Dziwornu
Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by Evortepe Isabella