In collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Ghana has launched the 2024 World Drug Report in Accra, Ghana, as part of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The event was held on the theme “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention” and seeks to raise awareness and intensify efforts to prevent drug trafficking and abuse.
In a speech read on behalf of the President of Ghana, the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Henry Quartey stated that Government is committed to addressing the global drug problem, acknowledging the challenges posed by drug trafficking and abuse.
According to him, this is evident through Ghana’s enactment of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), which treats substance use disorders as a public health issue and provides for treatment, rehabilitation, and alternative livelihoods.
Hon. Henry Quartey noted that Ghana has never been spared from the impact of drug trafficking, drug abuse and attendant health problems. “However, it is heartwarming to state that Ghana acknowledges the challenges with the implementation of international and domestic drug policies, particularly for the health and safety of the Ghanaian society” he added.
The Hon. Minister pledged Government’s support to provide necessary resources to the Narcotics Control Commission and other security agencies to enforce drug laws and ensure public safety.
He called on Ghanaians, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, traditional authorities, and non-governmental organisations to support law enforcement agencies in the fight against the drug canker.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator, H. E. Charles Abani commended Ghana for its immense partnership in addressing the drug menace in Africa.
He reiterated the support of the United Nations in collaborating with Ghana to champion the course against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
The launch of the 2024 World Drug Report in Accra serves as a call to action for West African countries to intensify their efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse. Ghana’s commitment to this cause is a beacon of hope for the region, and its efforts are expected to have a positive impact on the global fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
The 2024 World Drug Report highlights the need for evidence-based approaches to drug prevention and treatment and emphasises the importance of addressing stigma and discrimination against people with drug use disorders.
