The Chief Executive Officer of the Aristocrat Confraternity, Ohene Danquah Agyeman Duah, has expressed deep concern over the rising abuse of opioids and other substances among Ghanaian youth.
Describing the situation as “pathetic,” he called for immediate national attention and action to address the crisis and help young people stay away from such harmful vices, which he said are detrimental to their health and the country’s future.
According to Ohene Agyeman Duah, the strength of every nation lies in its youth, and if leaders remain passive while the younger generation engages in drug abuse, the future of the country will be severely affected.
“If they are no more, we won’t have anyone to replace them to run and manage the affairs of this country.”
He emphasized that “Our association [Aristocrat Confraternity] is committed to educating the youth on the dangers of engaging in substance abuse, and to enable them to stay away from such practices because the future of Ghana lies in their hands.”
He made these remarks on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Peduase in the Akuapem South Municipality of the Eastern Region during the association’s annual mega health walk.
Hundreds of individuals participated in this year’s event, which also featured free health screenings.
Ohene Danquah also revealed that the association is considering increasing the frequency of the health walk to three times a year, up from the current once-a-year event, to encourage more participation and promote regular exercise.
The planned decision, he said had become necessary as the exercise offers a platform for workers who usually don’t have time for physical activity a chance to stretch their bodies and stay healthier.
He also advise the youth to remain focused and avoid actions that could ruin their lives or disturb national peace.
The Municipal Health Director for Akuapem South, Emily Amponsah, also highlighted the importance of regular exercise, stating that it contributes significantly to longevity and overall health.
She recommended at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily, noting that regular exercise reduces the risk of non-communicable diseases such as cancer, hypertension, and diabetes.
Madam Amponsah thus encouraged the public to avoid oily foods, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and sugary carbonated drinks.
“…Let’s rather eat more fruits and drink more water to strengthen our immune system,” advised the health professional.
A former Member of Parliament for the Suhum Constituency, Ransford Agyapong, who serves as a patron of the Aristocrat Confraternity, added that the association comprises members from various political parties, promoting peace and harmony across political lines.
He stated that when the youth see political actors walking in unity, they are less likely to engage in actions that disturb national peace or jeopardize their future.
By// Kontihen Kofi Oboh.
Source// Obohnewsonline.com.
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