The Sogakope New Town Seventh-day Adventist Church and students from the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) joined forces to stage a community float over the weekend, raising awareness about drug abuse in Ghana’s Volta Region.
The float marked the climax of a week-long drug awareness campaign, part of the SDA Church’s annual May observance dedicated to educating the public—especially youth—on the dangers of substance abuse.
Carrying bold placards, participants marched through Sogakope, spreading messages of prevention and hope.
“This is part of a nationwide campaign,” said Elder Samuel Yeboah of the Sogakope SDA Church. “We spent the week engaging the community with health screenings, education, and evangelism. The float capped it all, urging our youth to stay off drugs.”
Dr. Sulleh Gbandy, a UHAS lecturer, stressed that drug abuse isn’t limited to any group. “We addressed common drug misuse, including tramadol and diclofenac, and offered support services throughout the week. Awareness must be continuous.”
Many of the UHAS students involved are members of the Ghana National Association of Adventist Students. Ella Kala-Oppong, one of the participants, shared a message of hope: “Jesus still loves you, no matter your struggle. Drug abuse can be overcome with help and faith.”
The campaign drew positive attention from the community, underscoring how collaboration between faith-based groups, students, and health professionals can make a meaningful impact in the fight against addiction.
