E/R: Akyem Tafo Apagyahene Urges Youth to Shun Drug Abuse, Calls for Community Support

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The Apagyahene of Akyem Tafo in Ghana's Eastern region, Nana Kwame Gyasi I, has issued a heartfelt plea to the youth of Akyem Tafo to steer clear of drug abuse, warning of its devastating impact on their health, future, and community.


Speaking in an interview with Accra FM/CTV’s Apelete Kofi-Michel at his palace in Akyem Tafo, Eastern Region, on June 16, 2025, Nana Gyasi I raised alarm over the rising abuse of harmful substances among young people in the area.


“Drug abuse is destroying our youth—physically, mentally, and emotionally. We must take a stand,” he warned.




The chief listed substances such as cannabis, cocaine, tramadol, ecstasy, mephedrone, 'red', and 'speed' as especially dangerous, urging young people not to experiment with any drugs that alter perception, mood, or behavior, as these often lead to addiction and social instability.


Beyond drug issues, the Apagyahene encouraged the youth to promote peace, resist peer pressure, and avoid being used by others for selfish purposes. He called on community leaders, parents, and the government to work together in curbing drug abuse and providing better opportunities for the younger generation.


He further appealed for increased support for education, stressing that higher education and skills training are essential tools to empower the youth and reduce vulnerability to social vices.


Nana Kwame Gyasi I made these remarks as part of the Ohum Festival celebration and the first anniversary of his enstoolment to the Daasebre Adusei Peasah IV stool in the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area.


During the celebration, he commended successful citizens of Akyem Tafo who have excelled in various fields and urged them to “give back to the community that raised them.”


“It’s time for the privileged to reconnect with their roots and help drive development in Akyem Tafo,” he stated.




He also made a passionate appeal to the government to urgently address poor roads, inadequate school infrastructure, and health facility challenges in the area, stressing that these improvements are vital to the transformation of the Akyem Tafo Traditional Area.


Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare 


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