MP Leads Fight to Break Substance Abuse Chains in Prestea Huni Valley

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Prestea Huni Valley, Hon. Robert Wisdom Cudjoe, has called for a united community effort to tackle substance abuse and protect young people from its devastating consequences.

He made the call following the maiden edition of the “Community Durbar on Breaking the Chains of Substance Abuse,” held at Prestea on Saturday, August 8, 2026, bringing together traditional authorities, security agencies, health professionals, educators, parents, community leaders and other stakeholders.

The programme, which sought to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse, provided a platform for meaningful engagement on the growing need to protect young people and build safer communities.

Hon. Cudjoe expressed appreciation to the Divisional Chief of Himan, Nana Nteboah Pra IV, the Municipal Chief Executive for Prestea Huni Valley, Hon. Matthew Ayeh, the various security agencies, traditional authorities, the Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), health professionals, community leaders, parents, teachers, students and other stakeholders for their participation and support.

“The fight against substance abuse cannot be won by one institution alone. It requires the collective effort of government, traditional authorities, security agencies, schools, parents, religious bodies, civil society and communities,” he said.

According to the MP, the strong participation at the durbar demonstrates a growing commitment among stakeholders to confront substance abuse and safeguard the future of the youth.

He stressed that education, awareness and community mobilisation must remain central to efforts to prevent young people from falling victim to substance abuse.

“This initiative will not end here,” Hon. Cudjoe assured, announcing plans for similar community durbars to be organised in Aboso and Bogoso as part of efforts to extend the campaign across the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality.

He said the subsequent engagements would help deepen public education, strengthen community involvement and encourage collective action against the abuse of drugs and alcohol.

Hon. Cudjoe urged parents, teachers, community leaders, religious organisations, security agencies and young people themselves to remain actively involved in the campaign.

“Together, let us break the chains of substance abuse, protect our youth and secure a healthier and brighter future for Prestea Huni Valley,” he said.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to create sustained community dialogue and action around substance abuse, with stakeholders expected to continue working together to protect young people and promote healthier communities.

Source: Felix Nyaaba/ ExpressNewsGhana.com