The Minister for Ahafo Region, Charity Gardiner, has expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of drug abuse among the youth in the region and has called on stakeholders to intervene to curb the growing menace urgently.

Speaking during a visit to the Muslim community at Kenyasi No.1, where she donated mats, buta, soft drinks, water, and an undisclosed sum of money, the minister noted that substances like tramadol and marijuana were being abused at an alarming rate, posing serious health and security risks.

She emphasized that if urgent measures were not taken, the region’s reputation could be severely affected.

Charity Gardiner urged religious leaders, traditional authorities, parents, and law enforcement agencies to join forces in fighting drug abuse among the youth.

She stressed that it was time for a collective approach to protect the future of the younger generation.

The Imam of Kenyasi No.1, Bawa Abubakari, also shared his concerns, expressing shock at the extent of drug abuse in the community.

He urged young people to stay away from drugs, warning that it could lead to serious health complications and even premature death.

The minister’s call has sparked discussions on the need for increased awareness and rehabilitation programs to help curb the rising trend of drug abuse in the Ahafo Region.