The Catholic Youth Organisation (CYO) of the Jamasi and Ejisu Deaneries used its annual jamboree as a platform to call on young people to stay away from drug and substance abuse. The event was held on Friday, August 29, at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Asamang, in the Catholic Diocese of Konongo-Mampong.
The campaign against drug abuse was led by Mr. Mensah Peter, a Clinical Psychiatry Officer at the SDA Hospital in Asamang. He delivered a heartfelt address, warning of the devastating effects of drugs on the lives of individuals and the nation as a whole.
Speaking passionately to the youth (Crusaders), Mr. Mensah explained that drug use often begins subtly through curiosity, peer influence, or the search for an escape from personal struggles. However, he stressed that the consequences are severe, leading to broken health, broken families, and broken dreams.
“The future of Ghana lies in the strength and discipline of its young people,” he told the youth. “When you choose drugs, you choose to destroy your future and weaken your contribution to the country.”
Mr. Mensah went further to highlight how drug abuse does not only harm individuals but also burdens society. He pointed out the rising crime rates, the pressure on healthcare systems, and the weakening of moral values as lasting scars left by substance abuse.
He urged the young people to embrace healthier alternatives such as active participation in faith-based groups like the CYO, involvement in sports, and engagement in cultural activities. These, he said, would nurture character, discipline, and resilience, values that no drug can provide.
The organizers of the jamboree expressed deep gratitude to Mr. Mensah for his timely advocacy. They also reaffirmed the CYO’s mission to raise responsible, Christ-centered youth who will not only build a stronger Church but also protect the moral foundation of the nation.
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