Youth Urged to Embrace Sports, Shun Hard Drugs at Sanuor Football Gala

Traditional and government leaders in the Sanuor community have urged young people to steer clear of hard drug abuse and excessive alcohol consumption. The appeal was made during the recently held Sanuor Assemblyman Football Gala, which attracted residents and participants from across the electoral area in the Wa West District of the Upper West Region.

Naa Braimah Tiborataa Tungbani VI, the Chief of Ga, emphasized the importance of engaging in sporting activities as a means to foster discipline, promote good health, and open up opportunities for the youth. “Sports serve as a vital channel for channeling youthful energy into productive and positive pursuits,” he stated. The chief further urged young people to focus on planning for a brighter future by avoiding social vices that could hinder their development.

He called on parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to support initiatives that encourage sports and positive youth development, underscoring their role in addressing social challenges such as drug abuse and underage alcoholism.

The District Chief Executive for Wa West, Hon. Richard Wulo, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting football’s significance in modern Ghana’s social fabric. “Football is more than just a sport; it is a tool for building a positive and sustainable future for our youth,” he said. Hon. Wulo appealed to parents to support talented young footballers and urged them not to restrict their participation in sporting activities.

In addition to youth-focused messages, Hon. Wulo addressed security concerns, encouraging gun owners to take advantage of the ongoing amnesty period to surrender their firearms without fear. He assured that they would be allowed to register their weapons later, emphasizing community safety.

The initiative was further supported by Hon. Deri Claudius, Assemblyman for the Sanuor Electoral Area, who explained that the football gala was organized to promote unity within the community and to encourage the youth to move away from illegal activities such as galamsey (illegal mining). “This event aims to bring the youth back home and channel their energies into sports and community development,” Hon. Claudius stated.

The Sanuor Football Gala not only celebrated sporting talent but also underscored the collective effort to foster social cohesion and positive youth engagement in the area. Community leaders hope that such initiatives will inspire the youth to pursue healthy, productive lifestyles while strengthening unity within Sanuor.