By Michael Kofi Kenetey
The Oyokohene and Adontenhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, Nana Osei-Bonsu Sempeh, has marked his third anniversary as Oyokohene with an anti-drug abuse education campaign for students and young people in Oyoko.
The programme was organised in collaboration with the Eastern Regional Office of the Centre for National Culture and the New Juaben North Municipal Health Directorate. It brought together students and community members to raise awareness on the dangers of substance abuse.
As part of the activities, the New Juaben North Municipal Mental Health Department conducted mental health screenings for participants.
The Centre for National Culture also performed a drama to educate the public on the negative effects of drug abuse and the importance of good mental health.
Speaking at the event, the Eastern Regional Mental Health Coordinator and clinical psychologist, Dr Akosua Serwaah Bonsu, revealed that the Eastern Region recorded more than 1,000 cases of mental and behavioural disorders linked to substance use in 2025.
She explained that the figure reflects only cases reported at health facilities and does not include undiagnosed or unreported cases in communities, suggesting the true prevalence is likely higher.
She added that in the New Juaben North Municipality, alcohol-related conditions remain the leading cause of mental health issues, followed by other forms of substance abuse.
Nana Osei-Bonsu Sempeh said drug abuse contributes to mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety and addiction, which in turn can lead to violence, school dropouts and broken lives. He urged young people to avoid substance abuse in order to secure a better future.
He added that although he is committed to promoting development in Oyoko, progress would be difficult if the youth continue to abuse substances.
The Oyokohenmaa and Adontenhenmaa, Nana Akoma Serwaa Bonsu, urged parents to take a keen interest in the welfare of their children. She reaffirmed the commitment of traditional leaders to work with stakeholders to reduce substance abuse in the community.
