Dr. Jones Opoku-Ware, a criminologist at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has called on Ghana to tighten border security, strengthen family values, and expand community support systems to tackle the country's growing drug problem. Speaking on Joy FM's Super Morning Show on Monday, July 27, Dr. Opoku-Ware stated that Ghana's drug problem has evolved into a national crisis. He emphasized that the issue requires a multi-sectoral approach, extending beyond traditional law enforcement efforts.
The criminologist highlighted that one of the first steps should be to disrupt the operations of international drug trafficking syndicates. These syndicates exploit Ghana's weak border controls, working with local groups to move drugs into the country. Intelligence and research indicate that transnational criminal networks are actively involved in this illicit trade. The porous nature of Ghana's borders makes it easier for traffickers to transport illegal substances, complicating the work of security agencies.
Ghana's drug problem has significant implications for public health and national security. The ease with which drugs enter the country contributes to a rise in substance abuse, particularly among young people. This trend places a strain on public health resources and can lead to increased crime rates. The evolving nature of drug abuse, including the mixing of prescription medicines and other substances, presents new challenges for authorities and healthcare providers.
Dr. Opoku-Ware specifically mentioned that some trafficking networks have links to Nigeria, Latin America, and parts of Asia. He cited Tramadol as an example of a drug known to enter Ghana from countries such as India. He stressed the need to seal these porous borders to track the movements of these cartels and gain a firm grip on their operations. This requires enhanced intelligence gathering and coordinated efforts among security agencies.
Beyond border security, Dr. Opoku-Ware urged Ghana to examine the role of families in preventing young people from abusing drugs. He suggested that many young people involved in substance abuse struggle with identity issues due to a lack of proper guidance and values during childhood. He questioned whether changes in family structures contribute to the increasing number of young people abusing drugs. Families have a responsibility to build children's confidence and values from an early age, making them less susceptible to negative peer influence.
The criminologist also called for the expansion of community-based interventions in areas most affected by drug abuse. He welcomed government efforts to establish community social support systems in some Zongo communities. He described this initiative as a positive step that should be replicated across the country, especially in identified drug hotspots. Communities are often best placed to identify local problems and help prevent crime and substance abuse effectively.
Dr. Opoku-Ware further advocated for sustained public education through schools and community campaigns. These campaigns should aim to discourage drug abuse and promote healthy lifestyles. He warned that Ghana's drug problem has changed significantly, with users increasingly mixing prescription medicines, painkillers, and cough syrups to create new, difficult-to-monitor substances. This shift transforms the issue from merely a criminal act into a public health crisis that demands urgent national attention and a comprehensive, coordinated response from all stakeholders.