Vice President of the Republic, Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to a compassionate, community-driven, and evidence-based approach to drug control, as she served as Special Guest of Honour at the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Held under the global theme “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” this year’s commemoration focused on strengthening efforts to address drug abuse at its roots, while acknowledging the growing challenges posed by synthetic substances and evolving forms of organised crime.

In her address, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang described drug abuse as one of the most pressing threats to public health, safety, and national development, calling on all stakeholders to embrace a multifaceted strategy that balances enforcement with rehabilitation and community support.

“Our approach must combine enforcement with compassion and community action,” she emphasised, noting that the changing dynamics of drug trafficking—particularly the rise of synthetic opioids—demand a proactive and united response.

The Vice President applauded the ongoing efforts of the Narcotics Control Commission, whose recent operations led to the destruction of more than 16 metric tons of seized drugs.

“Each gram destroyed is potentially a life saved,” she said, praising the agency’s resolve in curbing the spread of illicit substances.

She also welcomed recent directives from the Minister for the Interior to operationalise the Substance Use Disorder Rehabilitation Fund, describing it as a key step toward supporting individuals and families affected by drug addiction.

Beyond the immediate dangers of drug abuse, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang drew attention to the wider implications of the narcotics trade, including its links to wildlife crime, environmental destruction, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.

She stressed that drug control must be viewed not just as a policing issue, but as a collective national priority requiring bold and coordinated action.

“If we are to build a resilient and prosperous Ghana, we must treat this fight as a shared responsibility,” she said.

“Let us combine local action with global cooperation to confront this crisis head-on.”

The Vice President ended her address with a rallying call to all Ghanaians to remain steadfast in the pursuit of a healthier, safer nation—free from the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking.