A recent study by the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) reveals that 45.1% of young people in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality have used substances for non-medical reasons. This figure comes from a baseline study focusing on individuals aged 15 to 35 in five distinct suburbs. The findings were presented on June 26 as part of World Drug Day observances.
This high prevalence suggests a significant public health challenge within the municipality. The study identified alcohol as the most commonly used substance, reported by 40.8% of all respondents. Madina emerged as a particular area of concern, showing a lifetime prevalence rate of 73.5%, significantly higher than other areas like Pantang, which recorded 30.5%.
The issue of substance abuse, particularly among Ghana’s youth, represents a substantial threat to human capital development. High rates of drug use can impact productivity, drive up healthcare costs, and strain social welfare systems. This trend risks undermining efforts to achieve sustainable economic growth and stability. Previous surveys and anecdotal evidence have often pointed to rising substance use, but this study provides concrete data for a specific, densely populated urban area.
Professor Alexander Preko, Director of the Research and Consultancy Centre at UPSA, highlighted the study's importance. He stated, “The study provides an important evidence base for understanding the nature, scale and drivers of youth substance use.” This statement underscores the critical need for data-driven interventions. The study analysed 1,039 responses from suburbs including Madina, Teiman, West Adenta, Pantang, and Oyarifa.
Decision-makers must now consider how to implement targeted intervention strategies, particularly in identified hotspots like Madina. The report stresses that interventions should not be spread thinly but should focus on high-risk communities. Policymakers will also need to address identified drivers such as peer influence, stress, unemployment, and weak family support. The mean age of first substance use, 18.7 years, indicates that prevention efforts must begin early and include both in-school and out-of-school youth. The high relapse rate of 84.5% among those who tried to quit further calls for robust, structured support mechanisms.
The study also found that while awareness of substance abuse is high, at 94.9%, awareness alone has not deterred use. Only 6.6% of sensitised respondents received information through NACOC campaigns, suggesting a gap in official outreach efforts. Schools remain the strongest channel for sensitisation, but the report notes that many vulnerable groups, including out-of-school youth and apprentices, may not be reached effectively through school-based programs. This calls for diversified communication strategies that reach a broader segment of the youth population.
The economic implications of unchecked substance abuse are profound. Increased healthcare burdens, reduced workforce participation, and potential rises in crime rates could significantly impact Ghana’s national budget and development objectives. Continued monitoring and evaluation, coupled with effective implementation of targeted programs, will be crucial to mitigate these potential long-term effects. The business community may also see impacts through reduced available labour and increased social issues affecting their workforce.
The National Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), alongside educational institutions and community leaders, will be under pressure to collaborate on evidence-based solutions. Addressing peer pressure, providing psychological support, and creating job opportunities for the youth could be vital components of a national response strategy. Ghana’s long-term economic prosperity is tied to the health and productivity of its young population.