The Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has urged government ministries to take immediate and decisive action to protect young people from the rising menace of drug abuse, particularly the opioid known as “Red.”

His appeal comes as the ministry launches the “Ghana Against Drugs – Red Means Stop” campaign, aimed at curbing the alarming surge in substance abuse among the youth.

Urgent Call for Collective Action
Speaking at the campaign launch in Accra, Opare Addo stressed the need for a unified approach in combating the growing drug crisis.

“We must recognize the life-threatening consequences of opioid abuse and take decisive action against it,” he stated.

He called on government agencies, policymakers, schools, civil society groups, religious and traditional leaders, and the media to work together in protecting young people from the devastating effects of drug addiction.

Key Objectives of the Campaign
Raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.

Strengthening regulations to curb the illegal distribution of opioids.

Empowering young people with knowledge to make informed decisions.

Encouraging rehabilitation and support for those struggling with addiction.

Mobilizing key stakeholders to take an active role in the fight against drug abuse.

The Role of Society
Opare Addo emphasized that government alone cannot win this battle. He urged:

Law enforcement to crack down on the distribution of dangerous opioids.

Civil society organizations to enhance public education and rehabilitation efforts.

The media to amplify the campaign’s message and hold institutions accountable.

Religious and traditional leaders to provide moral guidance and community support.

Message to the Youth: "Red Means Stop"
The campaign’s slogan, “Red Means Stop,” serves as a powerful warning against opioid abuse.

“Just as a red traffic light signals danger and the need to stop, we must recognize the life-threatening consequences of opioid abuse and take decisive action against it,” Opare Addo explained.

Growing Concern Over "Red"
The campaign follows viral social media videos showing young people under the influence of “Red”—staggering, slurring their speech, and in some cases, collapsing. The hashtag “#WonimRed” has fueled public outrage, prompting urgent calls for government intervention.

Opare Addo encouraged young people to take ownership of the campaign, seek help if struggling with addiction, and prioritize their futures.

“Your future is far too valuable to be sacrificed for a fleeting high,” he stressed.

The “Ghana Against Drugs – Red Means Stop” initiative marks a major step in the fight against drug abuse, with the government and society working together to protect the nation’s youth.