The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) is set to commemorate this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a high-level event aimed at raising awareness about the growing global drug problem and the need for innovative solutions.
The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
This year’s observance is on the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” reflecting the need for governments, institutions and communities to adopt new strategies in tackling drug abuse and trafficking.
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The Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Hon. Julius Debrah, will serve as the Guest of Honour, while the Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, is expected to lead discussions on Ghana’s efforts to combat narcotics-related crimes and substance abuse.
The event will bring together policymakers, security agencies, health professionals, civil society organizations, academics and students to discuss the impact of drug abuse on individuals, families and national development.
NACOC says the commemoration will provide an opportunity to assess progress made in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, while exploring innovative approaches to prevention, rehabilitation and law enforcement.
Drug abuse continues to pose a major public health and security challenge across the world, particularly among young people. Experts warn that the increasing availability of illicit substances and the emergence of new synthetic drugs require coordinated national and international responses.
The Commission is therefore expected to use the occasion to strengthen public education on the dangers associated with substance abuse and to encourage citizens to support efforts aimed at creating safer and healthier communities.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed annually on June 26 to strengthen global action and cooperation towards achieving a world free of drug abuse and illegal drug trade.
