The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has reaffirmed government’s commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking for a safer environment which would go a long way to make Ghana a drug-free country.
The Minister pledged support for the Commission’s efforts, emphasising the need for collaboration and coordination among stakeholders.
Muntaka, who was speaking during a working visit to the Commission in Accra, urged the Commission to put necessary measures in place and continue with its good work to achieve its mandate and promote national security, economic development and good governance.
Last year, under the previous Akufo-Addo administration, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Ghana 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 then President of Ghana, the then Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey stated that the previous government was committed to addressing the global drug problem, acknowledging the challenges posed by drug trafficking and abuse.
According to him, this was 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 launch of the 2024 World Drug Report in Accra served 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 highlighted 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.