FDA Engages Stakeholders to Combat Tramadol Abuse in Upper West Region

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has convened a stakeholder meeting in the Wa Municipality to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly tramadol, in the Upper West Region. Attendees included representatives from the Wa Municipal Assembly, Bahas Foundation, Hope Foundation, Department of Social Welfare, Narcotics Control Commission, and others.

Mr. Kelvin Sunkpal Dafaari, Upper West Regional Head of the FDA, emphasized the need for collaboration and community involvement to combat drug abuse. He noted that the lack of reporting by community members hindered efforts to fight the problem.

The FDA aims to intensify public education and sensitization at the community level, strengthen collaboration with relevant state agencies, and work with traditional leaders to address the issue. Mr. Yahaya Mohammed Hafiz, Upper West Regional Manager of the Pharmacy Council, stressed the importance of ensuring that all players in the drug value chain operate according to the law to reduce drug abuse.

Tramadol, in particular, has become a concern, with unauthorized vendors, including mobile money vendors and provision shops, selling it in communities. The Wa Municipal Chief Executive, Mr. Issahaku Tahiru Moomin, highlighted drug abuse as a national security concern, attributing the high crime rate in the municipality to drug abuse and emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to tackle it.

Assembly members were urged to support the FDA and serve as ambassadors against drug peddling and abuse. Mr. Yahaya Jiga, Assembly Member for the Bamahu Electoral Area, suggested producing injectable tramadol, which would be more difficult for individuals to use without medical supervision.

The meeting aimed to chart effective ways to combat drug abuse, particularly tramadol, and ensure a safer and healthier community.