Agogo Paramount Queen Mother Urges Youth to Unite Against Drug Abuse  

The Paramount Queen Mother of Agogo Asante Akim in the Asante Akim North Constituency of the Ashanti Region, Nana Juaben Afrakoma Serwaa Kusi Oboadum, has called on the youth of the community and Ghana as a whole to rise together in a united front against the growing challenge of drug abuse. She made the appeal during a community durbar held at Agogo over the weekend, an event that brought together traditional leaders, educators, youth groups, and health professionals.

Addressing the gathering, Nana Afrakoma Serwaa expressed deep concern about the increasing rate of drug misuse among young people, warning that the trend threatens not only their future but the social and economic stability of the entire community.

According to her, the alarming rise in substance abuse particularly among teenagers can derail the aspirations of young people and erode the values that have long held the community together.

“We cannot sit back and watch our future leaders destroy themselves,” she said. “The youth must stand together, support one another, and reject anything that diminishes their potential. When our youth are strong, focused, and healthy, our community thrives.”

She urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the behaviors and emotional well-being of their children, adding that the fight against drug abuse must begin at home. She also called on teachers, religious bodies, and traditional authorities to intensify education and mentorship programs aimed at empowering young people.

Representatives from local youth organizations praised the Queen Mother’s leadership, noting that her continued advocacy has inspired several anti-drug campaigns in the municipality. Health professionals present at the event also used the opportunity to educate attendees on the dangers of drugs such as tramadol, marijuana, and various synthetic substances that have become prevalent among teenagers.

The durbar concluded with a pledge by youth groups to champion peer education, promote healthy lifestyles, and collaborate with community leaders to combat drug abuse.

The Queen Mother emphasized that the collective strength of the youth is crucial: “When you unite with purpose, no challenge is unbeatable. Together, we can build a future free from drug abuse and full of promise.”

 

Source: ghanawatchonline.com/0546062832