Ghanaian rapper Medikal has been appointed ambassador for the National Youth Authority (NYA) “Red Means Stop” campaign aimed at combating the use of the synthetic drug known as “Red” among young people.
The announcement was made in Parliament on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, by the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo.
Using influence for prevention
According to the Minister, the appointment is a strategic move to leverage Medikal’s strong appeal among young Ghanaians to amplify anti-drug messaging, particularly among at-risk youth.
He stated that the rapper’s music reach and social media presence position him as an effective advocate for substance-free living.
As part of his role, Medikal is expected to promote the campaign through public appearances, school outreach programmes and online engagement. He will also incorporate “Red Means Stop” themes into performances and music visuals while supporting youth advocacy training and mobilisation initiatives.
Growing drug abuse concerns
The campaign comes amid rising concerns over drug use among young people in Ghana. Recent data indicate that approximately 50,000 individuals are reported drug users, with around 35,000 of them being students aged between 12 and 35 years.
Substances commonly abused include alcohol, synthetic opioids, marijuana and cocaine, with dangerous combinations such as “Red” becoming increasingly prevalent.
Studies suggest that a significant proportion of senior high school and tertiary students have encountered drug use, and many first-time users begin experimenting in their mid-teens. Health experts link substance abuse to memory impairment, truancy, behavioural challenges and long-term addiction.
The “Red Means Stop” initiative forms part of broader efforts under the Ministry to raise awareness about opioid abuse and promote healthier lifestyles among Ghana’s youth.
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