Alcohol consumption in Upper East up – Health NGOs

Coalition of NGOs in health has bemoaned the spate of alcohol consumption among the youth in Upper East Region and called on stakeholders, particularly government to help address the menace.

The Upper East Vice Chairman of the Coalition, Mr Alagskomah Noble Asakeya, who expressed the concern in a solidarity message at this year‘s May Day in Bolgatanga, said the high rate of alcohol consumption among the youth had affected their lifestyles and health conditions.

He said if the situation was not addressed now the manpower needs of the region and for that matter the nation would be jeopardized in future.

He said the Coalition intended to carry out advocacy programmes to educate the youth on the dangers of alcohol and suggested to the government to impose heavy taxes on alcoholic drinks.

The Coalition also expressed concern about the recent strike by the doctors in the country and impressed upon them to temper justice with mercy and return to work to save lives, whilst negotiation continues.

“Ghana Coalition of NGOs in health as an advocacy organization is not happy that Doctors in the country are on strike at this critical time when we are accelerating the course towards the achievement of the Health Millennium Development Goals. Not only will this disturb the course of attaining the MDGs, but importantly precious lives are lost…,” the Vice Chairman said.

Workers in the region defied the rains and took to the streets on May Day amidst brass band music provided by the Ghana Police Service.

Source: GNA