Ghanaian Hiplife/Hiphop star Medikal has been appointed as an official ambassador for the National Youth Authority’s (NYA) ‘Red Means Stop’ campaign, aimed at curbing the use of high-dose tramadol — commonly known as ‘Red’ — among young people.

The announcement was made in Parliament by the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, who explained that Medikal’s popularity and influence among Ghanaian youth make him a strategic partner in promoting drug-free living.

“In a strategic move to enhance the campaign’s appeal and credibility among the youth, the National Youth Authority has appointed renowned musician Medikal as an official ‘Red Means Stop’ ambassador,” Minister Opare Addo said.

“His influence through music and social media positions him as an ideal advocate for substance-free living.”

As part of his role, Medikal will serve as a visible role model, engaging in school outreach programs, featuring anti-drug messages in music videos and performances, and supporting advocacy training and mobilisation efforts.

The minister emphasised that the ambassadorial appointment is part of a wider strategy by the NYA to strengthen Ghana’s fight against substance abuse among young people.

Statistics show that nearly four in 10 senior high school studentsand more than four in 10 tertiary students have encountered drug use, with many first-time users experimenting in their mid-teens. Substance abuse has been linked to impaired memory, truancy, behavioral problems, and long-term addiction.

The ‘Red Means Stop’ campaign is part of the Ministry’s broader effort to raise awareness about the dangers of opioid abuse and promote healthier lifestyles among Ghanaian youth.