Keypoints:
- Opioid ‘Red’ spreads rapidly among Ghana’s youth
- Lax regulation blamed for surge in addiction
- Government launches national awareness campaign
GHANA is facing a spiralling public health crisis as a wave of opioid addiction sweeps through its youth population, with the street drug known as ‘Red’ emerging as a potent and dangerous catalyst.
According to a Radio France Internationale (RFI) report, social media videos have laid bare the toll of addiction, capturing scenes of young people in distress after using the powerful substance, originally intended as a painkiller but now misused widely.
‘Red’ destroying young lives
Among those caught in the crisis is Ekow Annan, a 20-year-old mason from the Western Region, who told RFI that he started using opioids to cope with the physical demands of his job.
‘I do hard work, so I needed extra energy. That’s why I used opioids,’ he said.
Charles Manu from Koforidua in the Eastern Region shared a similar story. ‘I was introduced to it by friends who said it would help me work and be good in bed. Now I’m addicted and trying to stop. I tell young people: don’t try it – it will ruin your life.’
Medical experts sound the alarm
Doctors are warning of the devastating health consequences. Dr Kwabena Ofori, of the Presbyterian Hospital in Dormaa Ahenkro, highlighted the neurological dangers of prolonged opioid abuse.
‘It causes abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can lead to seizures. It also results in mood disorders, anxiety, memory loss, and poor decision-making,’ he said.
Poor regulation fuels crisis
Access to opioids has grown easier due to illegal imports and weak regulation of sales. Port authorities have reported an increase in drug smuggling, with unapproved entry points exploited by traffickers.
Dr Richmond Adusa-Poku of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana said unauthorised sellers are flooding the market.
‘Only licensed pharmacies should dispense opioids, but now over-the-counter vendors are selling them illegally. This is a recipe for disaster,’ he said.
In a recent crackdown, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and port officials at Tema Harbour seized a container of illegally imported opioids valued at 20 million cedis (about $1.4 million).
Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh stressed Ghana’s zero-tolerance stance: ‘While we support trade, Ghana will not be a transit point or dumping ground for opioids.’
National campaign steps up response
In response, the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has launched ‘Ghana Against Drugs – Red Means Stop’, a national anti-drug campaign aimed at raising awareness and pushing for regulatory reform.
‘The spread of ‘Red’ has become a national concern,’ said Minister George Opare Addo at the campaign launch in Accra. ‘This initiative is about protecting the future of our young people. We are taking a strong stand.’
He called for a coordinated response involving traditional leaders, faith-based groups, media, and state institutions. He urged the media to amplify the campaign’s message and ensure accountability in enforcement efforts.
A call to action
‘To the youth, I say: your life is worth more than a fleeting high,’ the minister said. ‘Say no to drugs. Surround yourself with people who uplift you. If you’re struggling, seek help.’
The government is encouraging those battling addiction to contact helplines, local counsellors, and support groups. Authorities say the war on opioids requires collective national resolve—not just enforcement but education, rehabilitation, and sustained community engagement.
As Ghana’s youth face this growing menace, officials warn that unless urgent steps are taken, the consequences will echo for generations.
