Chairman of the Health Committee of Parliament, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane
The Health Committee of Parliament is calling for stronger border regulations to address the increasing threat of illicit drug trafficking in the country.
This move is seen as a significant step forward in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen its border security and governance, with the potential to positively impact the country’s economy and national security.
It follows the interception of opioid drugs worth some GH₵20 million at the Tema Port by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), in collaboration with other stakeholders.
The shipment, which was en route to Niger, was successfully stopped.
However, speaking to Starr News, the Chairman of the Health Committee of Parliament, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, says the government must tighten border controls to avert this growing issue.
“Most of these drugs are not manufactured within the country; they are imported from other nations. We must strengthen our borders and ports and involve the security agencies to ensure effective monitoring. Additionally, our regulatory agencies need to be more vigilant. We should have specialists with full authority to carry out their duties effectively.”
Dr. Nawaane continued, “Currently, these drugs are not being directed solely to hospitals and pharmacy departments. Some of these drugs pose significant risks to our health. The quantities being imported far exceed what is necessary for our needs. It’s essential that we conduct thorough assessments and gather data to determine the exact quantities of these drugs required for medicinal purposes, ensuring that imports are not excessive.
“We must be more alert than ever before. The Food and Drugs Authority, the Standards Board, security agencies, and the general public should be well-informed and actively engaged in addressing these issues.”
