The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called for a wider approach to tackling drug abuse, urging authorities to give greater attention to substances that are readily available and increasingly used by young people.

The Bishops said the country’s drug problem goes beyond cocaine, pointing to the growing use of tramadol, marijuana and other substances as an issue requiring stronger public intervention.

Speaking to Citi News, President of the Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi, said the level of drug use among young people called for greater government attention. He stressed the need for authorities to consider the substances most commonly accessed by young people in their response to drug abuse.

Gyamfi also called for tighter control of the supply of such substances, including measures to curb their illegal importation and distribution. He said efforts to address the problem should also include measures to shield young people from the effects of substance abuse.

The Bishops had earlier raised concerns about Ghana’s wider drug-trafficking problem, calling for greater attention to the people and networks behind the illicit trade. The Conference has also advocated prevention, treatment and rehabilitation as part of efforts to address drug dependence.