International Tea Day Celebration: Do not stigmatize people battling addiction – NACOC urges public

‎The Assistant Narcotics Control Commission Officer and Head of the Education and Counselling Unit, Jennifer Abedi, has urged the public to support people struggling with substance abuse instead of stigmatizing them.
‎
‎She made the call at the A1 Radio/AquaBolg Natural Mineral Water International Tea Day Celebration, held under the theme “Fostering Growth and Inclusion.”
‎
‎Addressing youth, elders, and stakeholders at the event, Ms. Abedi warned against the impact of drug use on the health and potential of young people.
‎
‎“In every group, we need youth, we need energetic people. The moment we introduce substances into our body, we are no longer the same energetic people we were,” she said.
‎
‎“Doing drugs is illegal, and at the same time, it is not good for your health.”
‎
‎Ms. Abedi called on families and communities to stand with individuals battling addiction, stressing that recovery is possible with the right support.
‎
‎“We are telling all of them that it is not too late if you have started. And to families, those that have people who are battling with addiction, please we should not stigmatize them. They need us and we need them too,” she said.
‎
‎She encouraged young people at the event to make healthy choices and avoid substances that could derail their future.
‎
‎This year’s International Tea Day celebration brought together youth groups, persons with disabilities, development partners, health advocates, and members of the public to promote inclusiveness and community engagement.
‎
‎The annual event, organized by A1 Radio in partnership with AquaBolg, also featured health talks, product exhibitions, and discussions on local economic empowerment and social inclusion.
‎
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bolgatanga