Ghana Declares War on Drugs: ‘Red Means Stop’ Campaign Launched to Protect Youth
National initiative aims to curb opioid addiction and protect the future of Ghana’s youth
- The ‘Red Means Stop’ campaign seeks to curb opioid abuse
- A call to action for government agencies, religious leaders, and the media to unite in the fight
- The campaign emphasizes youth empowerment
The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has unveiled the “Ghana Against Drugs – ‘Red Means Stop’” campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at tackling the growing issue of substance abuse among young people.
Launched on March 26, 2025, in partnership with Entertainment Week Ghana, the campaign seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of opioid abuse and push for stronger regulatory measures.
Speaking at the event, Minister George Opare Addo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Ghanaian youth, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, leadership development, and overall health support.
“The rapid spread of dangerous opioids, particularly the drug known as ‘Red,’ is a serious threat to our youth. Today, we take a firm stand against this menace,” he declared.
He urged a united front against drug abuse, calling on government agencies, religious and traditional leaders, and the media to actively support the campaign. Addressing young people directly, he warned that their future was too valuable to be sacrificed for fleeting highs.
Deputy Minister of the Interior Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi described the campaign as a nationwide call to action, citing alarming statistics from a study in the Northern Region, where 62.3% of adolescents reported using illicit substances.
“This is more than an awareness campaign—it is a movement for change,” Terlabi asserted. “Together, let’s build a Ghana where drug abuse is rejected, dreams are protected, and our youth thrive in a safe and healthy environment.”
