The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) actively participated in a community forum held in Koforidua Zongo on May 17, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the collective fight against drug abuse. The forum, themed “Fighting the Drug Menace in Koforidua Zongo,” was organized by the Alliance for Koforidua Zongo Development and represented the inaugural event of a community-led initiative specifically targeting the growing concern of drug abuse among youth in the Zongo communities. This gathering served as a significant platform for open dialogue and collaborative strategy development, bringing together key stakeholders including security agencies, traditional leaders, health professionals, and community members.
The event highlighted the critical role of community engagement in addressing the complex challenge of drug abuse. PNCO Grace A-B Tawiah, Eastern Regional Commander of NACOC, commended the Alliance for Koforidua Zongo Development for their proactive stance in spearheading this crucial initiative. She lauded their commitment as a vital step towards safeguarding the future of young people in the region and creating a more secure and promising environment for generations to come. Her address emphasized the power of community ownership in tackling drug-related issues and the importance of sustained collaborative efforts to achieve lasting impact.
While encouraging community involvement, PNCO Tawiah also underscored the importance of adhering to due process in handling drug-related cases. She cautioned against vigilantism, urging community members to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and instead report suspected drug activities to NACOC as the appropriate authority. This emphasis on proper legal procedures served to ensure the protection of individual rights and the integrity of the justice system.
PNCO Tawiah further stressed the importance of continuous collaboration between NACOC and the community to establish Koforidua Zongo as a drug-free zone and a model for other communities nationwide. She highlighted education and awareness as the most potent weapons in preventing drug abuse and reiterated NACOC’s commitment to providing support and resources to families, youth groups, and associations seeking assistance. This proactive approach aims to empower communities with the knowledge and tools to effectively combat drug abuse and protect vulnerable individuals.
The forum also showcased the strong partnerships forged between NACOC and the Koforidua Zongo community. Commander Tawiah expressed gratitude to the organizers for hosting the event and granting NACOC access to the community information centre twice a week to conduct public education programs. This ongoing collaboration signals a commitment to sustained community engagement and the provision of accessible information to raise awareness and ultimately reduce drug use among young people. The consistent presence of NACOC within the community will foster trust and facilitate open communication, creating a conducive environment for individuals to seek help and support.
The presence of prominent figures at the forum, including the Ada Hene, Eastern Regional Chief Imam Yusif Hamdani, Regional Grand Mufti Sheikh Ibrahim Saliah, Koforidua Zongo Imam, and representatives from various security and health agencies, underscored the significance of the event and the collective commitment to addressing the drug menace. This broad representation from various sectors of society demonstrated the unified front against drug abuse and the recognition of its far-reaching consequences. The forum served as a catalyst for ongoing collaboration and solidified the partnership between NACOC and the Koforidua Zongo community in their shared mission to create a safer and healthier future for all. The event not only facilitated important discussions but also laid the foundation for sustained community-driven action against drug abuse. This collaborative approach holds immense potential for positive change and offers a promising model for other communities facing similar challenges.
