The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has launched a bold new initiative to combat the rising tide of drug abuse among young people in Ghana.

The intervention, according to him, titled ‘Red Means Stop’, and popularly known as ‘Wo Nim Red?’, is part of a broader national strategy to safeguard the health and future of the country’s youth.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series held at the Jubilee House on Monday, August 4, the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, described the increasing rate of substance use among young people as a “pressing concern” and a “significant public health challenge” that demands urgent and sustained attention.

“The ministry recognises this issue and is taking decisive action to address substance abuse through targeted prevention, education, and rehabilitation programmes,” he stated. “Our goal is to protect the health and future of our youth, who are the backbone of our nation.”

The ‘Wo Nim Red?’ campaign forms part of the national anti-substance abuse drive, with a specific focus on opioid misuse and other dangerous drugs. It is being rolled out across all 16 regions of the country and will target schools, youth groups, and community settings.

Designed with cultural sensitivity and grounded in evidence-based messaging, he said aims to raise awareness, promote behavioural change, and encourage early intervention.

Activities will include school outreach programmes, youth-led advocacy, and peer education sessions, as well as community engagements that reflect the lived experiences of young people.

“Youth health is non-negotiable,” Mr Opare Addo asserted. “This campaign is part of a wider focus on health and well-being, which also incorporates mental health awareness, reproductive health education, and access to youth-friendly services.”