Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has reaffirmed the government’s determination to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking, declaring that criminal networks will not be allowed to undermine Ghana’s communities, endanger its youth, or threaten national security.

Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Mr Debrah said the global drug problem has evolved into a complex challenge that demands innovative and coordinated responses.

The event was held under the theme, The World Drug Problem, Persisting Issues, New Challenges, and Innovative Responses. He said drug abuse can no longer be viewed solely as a law enforcement issue, explaining that it now affects public health, national development, family stability, and security.

“The global drug problem continues to evolve in ways that challenge governments, communities, and families across the world. What was once viewed primarily as a law enforcement issue has now become a broader public health, development, and security challenge”.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

According to Mr Debrah, substance abuse weakens productivity, places enormous pressure on public resources, and deprives young people of opportunities to realise their full potential.

Protecting Ghana’s Greatest Asset

The Chief of Staff stressed that Ghana’s greatest national resource is its people, particularly its youth, making the fight against drug abuse a national priority. “Our greatest asset is our people, and they need to be protected,” he said.

He noted that every young person lost to addiction represents lost talent and unrealised potential that could have contributed to national development.

Likewise, every family affected by substance abuse bears emotional and social burdens that extend beyond the household, while communities weakened by drugs lose part of their resilience.

“This is why governments view the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking as a matter of national importance,” he added. Mr Debrah said protecting young people is essential to securing Ghana’s future, which depends on the health, creativity, discipline, and productivity of its citizens.

Firm Enforcement and Compassionate Support

While emphasising the need for strong law enforcement, the Chief of Staff also called for compassion towards individuals battling addiction.

He said criminal organisations that traffic illicit drugs and exploit vulnerable young people must face the full force of the law. At the same time, he urged society to recognise that many people suffering from addiction are themselves victims who deserve support rather than rejection.

“They are our brothers and our sisters. They are our sons and daughters. They are members of our community whose lives have been disrupted by dependency and whose recovery deserves our support”.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

According to him, a compassionate society must provide access to treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration while restoring hope to people struggling with substance dependence.

“A compassionate society does not abandon people who need help. It provides pathways to treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration. It offers hope where there was despair and opportunity where there was once only uncertainty”.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

Government Intensifies Fight Against Drug Networks

Mr Debrah said the government remains committed to a balanced strategy that combines prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, recovery, and law enforcement.

He praised the work of Ghana’s security and intelligence agencies for identifying and disrupting criminal organisations involved in illicit drug trafficking, noting that organised crime continues to evolve through the use of technology and cross border operations.

“Our response must therefore be equally innovative, intelligence-driven, and coordinated,” he said. The Chief of Staff delivered a strong warning to drug traffickers, insisting that the government would pursue anyone seeking to profit from the destruction of lives.

“The government of Ghana will not allow criminal enterprises to undermine our communities, endanger our youth, and compromise our national security. It will not happen under the watch of President Mahama.
“Those who seek to enrich themselves through the trafficking of illicit drugs must understand that the full force of the law will be brought to bear against them. Ghana’s future cannot and will not be held hostage by criminal networks”.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

Prevention Begins With Opportunity

Although enforcement remains essential, Mr Debrah argued that preventing young people from becoming involved with drugs remains the most effective long term solution.

He called on parents, teachers, traditional leaders, religious organisations, civil society groups, and government institutions to work together in protecting young people from substance abuse.

“Parents must continue to engage their children with honesty and care. Teachers must continue to guide and mentor the next generation. Traditional and religious leaders must continue to promote values that strengthen communities and build character”.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

He also commended civil society organisations for their work in education, advocacy, and rehabilitation, while stressing that government must continue creating opportunities that inspire hope among young people.

Mr Debrah linked the anti drug campaign to the broader vision of the Mahama administration, saying investments in education, skills development, and employment reduce the vulnerabilities that criminal organisations exploit.

“Prevention begins with opportunity, and opportunity remains one of the most powerful tools in building a healthier and more secure society,” he said.

International Cooperation and Shared Responsibility

The Chief of Staff observed that illicit drug trafficking is a transnational problem that requires close international cooperation to combat effectively.

He urged governments and development partners to strengthen collaboration in confronting organised crime while protecting communities from the harmful effects of drug trafficking.

Reflecting on the significance of World Drug Day, Mr Debrah reminded participants that every statistic represents a human life and every successful rehabilitation marks the recovery of a future that might otherwise have been lost.

President Mahama’s Message

Mr Debrah concluded by delivering President Mahama’s message to Ghanaians, particularly young people, urging them to reject illicit drugs and embrace healthier and more productive lives.

“The challenge is affecting many Ghanaian families. Behind every case of addiction is a story of lost potential, broken dreams and a family struggling with pain. It weakens our social fabric and deprives our nation of the vibrant talent needed for our development”.
President John Dramani Mahama

Addressing the youth directly, President Mahama urged them to safeguard their future by making responsible choices.”Your future is too bright to be dimmed by illicit drugs. I urge you to choose a healthy, productive, and fulfilling life.”

The Chief of Staff in concluding his remarks, appealed to parents, teachers, traditional authorities, and religious leaders to strengthen guidance and vigilance in homes and schools, stressing that the fight against drugs begins within families and communities.

“Together, we can build a healthier, drug free Ghana. Let’s get to work. Let’s make our nation great and strong,” the President said.