Ghana joins the global community in commemorating World Alcohol-Free Day 2024 under the theme, “Say No to Alcohol and Selling Alcohol to Minors is a Crime.” The day aims to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and the serious implications of selling alcohol to minors, emphasizing the urgent need to address the health and social harms associated with alcohol consumption.
Recent research conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in partnership with The Lancet highlights that no amount of alcohol is safe for consumption. The research underlines alcohol as a significant risk factor for various health issues, including liver diseases, cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders. In Ghana, the increasing rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are directly linked to the widespread availability and use of alcohol, raising alarm bells for public health officials.
Since the introduction of the National Alcohol Policy in 2016, Ghana has made strides towards alcohol control; however, inconsistent implementation has hampered its effectiveness. Advocates are now urging the Ministry of Health to expedite the development of the draft National Alcohol Regulation. Once implemented, this regulation would provide essential guidelines for the marketing, sale, and consumption of alcohol, focusing particularly on protecting young people and vulnerable populations.
The Vision for Alternative Development and the Ghana NCD Alliance, alongside other civil society organizations, have commended the Ministry of Health for its efforts, particularly following the recent Supreme Court ruling that upheld the ban on celebrities and public figures promoting alcohol products. This ruling is seen as a significant step toward responsible advertising and prioritizing public health.
Despite these efforts, the normalization of alcohol use in Ghanaian society remains a concern, with alcohol present at nearly every social event. The aggressive marketing tactics and easy accessibility of alcohol have created an environment where the health risks of consumption are frequently overlooked.
On this World Alcohol-Free Day, calls for renewed commitment from all sectors of society echo louder than ever. The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has been pivotal in championing alcohol control initiatives but must continue to enforce policies vigorously. There is a pressing need for stricter measures against underage drinking and unlawful alcohol sales.
Public awareness campaigns are vital for educating citizens about the health risks associated with alcohol consumption. Collaboration with traditional and religious leaders is crucial in changing behaviors and misconceptions about alcohol, leveraging their influence to protect the younger generation.
In a collaborative effort with international partners, Ghana seeks to implement effective alcohol control interventions, including the WHO’s SAFER initiative aimed at reducing alcohol-related deaths and diseases. By aligning national strategies with the Global Alcohol Action Plan, Ghana aims to achieve broader health coverage and sustainable development goals.
This year’s World Alcohol-Free Day serves as a critical reminder that the fight against alcohol-related harm continues. As advocates unite to protect present and future generations from the dangers of alcohol, a collective commitment to action is more necessary than ever.