The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has partnered with the Christian Council of Ghana to address youth challenges, particularly the growing issue of drug abuse.

The partnership aims to amplify the “Ghana Against Drugs (GAD), Red Means Stop” campaign, which was launched in March 2025 to combat the rising substance abuse crisis among the country’s youth.

Organised by the Ministry, the campaign seeks to curb alarming rates of drug use among Ghanaian youth.

Speaking at a meeting with the Christian Council of Ghana in Accra on Febraury 12, 2026, George Opare Addo emphasised the importance of investing in young people, noting that they make up approximately 38% of Ghana’s population.

“The future of Ghana is not tomorrow; it is in our youth today. If we protect their health, equip them with skills, shape their character, give them leadership opportunities, and encourage community service, then we will build not just a prosperous nation, but a righteous one,” Addo said.

He highlighted the challenges facing Ghana’s youth, including mental health concerns, substance abuse, unemployment-related stress, sexual and reproductive health risks and digital addiction.

The meeting explored potential areas of collaboration such as career mentorship, digital literacy training, scholarships and apprenticeship programs.

Emergence of dangerous drug combinations poses a significant threat to Ghana’s youth - Terlabi

Opare Addo stressed that the government cannot tackle these issues alone and called for the support of the Church and other stakeholders to equip Ghana’s youth with the skills needed to build a strong future.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the ministry’s achievements and research findings on substance abuse and other challenges confronting young people.

Leading the council was the General Secretary of the CCG, Rev Dr Cyril Fayose, who pledged the Council’s support in addressing these challenges.

He noted that the Church would serve as a tool to promote good behavior among the youth.

Rev Dr Fayose explained that the Christian Council has a longstanding policy of preaching societal reforms, which they intend to rekindle in order to help achieve the campaign’s goals.

Those present at the meeting included Koku Anyidoho, Chairman of the CCG’s Maiden Ecumenical Convention Planning Committee, along with other executives of the Council.

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