The Kentenhene, Oheneba Owusu Antwi Boasiako II, has issued a strong caution to the youth of Kenten in the Bono East Region to stay away from all hard drugs, warning that substance abuse destroys the future.
The traditional ruler made the remarks during the yam festival celebration at Kenten Palace, stressing that he will never entertain drug addiction at Kenten. He noted that persons who abuse drugs and alcohol are often the ones recorded in robbery cases, linking substance abuse directly to rising criminal activity in the area.
Nana Antwi Boasiako called on all stakeholders to make the fight against drug addicts a collective concern, urging everyone from parents to community leaders to play their part in protecting the youth from the dangers of narcotics.
The chief also appealed to parents to take their wards’ education with all seriousness, describing it as a vital tool for securing a better future. He further pleaded with parents and teachers to re-engage the youth in traditional culture, including indigenous music, local food, and traditional modes of dressing.
According to the Kentenhene, reconnecting young people with their cultural roots would help instill discipline and a sense of identity, steering them away from negative influences. He expressed optimism that a combination of sound education, strong parental guidance, and cultural pride would safeguard the future of the youth in his jurisdiction.
The call adds to growing efforts by traditional authorities in the Bono East Region to combat drug abuse and its associated crimes among the youth.
