Send us a text

The opioid crisis sweeping across West Africa represents a grave public health emergency that demands immediate attention. Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d'Ivoire are witnessing an alarming rise in opioid abuse among their youth populations, creating devastating consequences for individuals, families, and entire communities. This crisis is not merely a health concern but also poses significant social and economic threats to these nations.

At the heart of this crisis lies a disturbing reality: manufacturers from India are specifically targeting West African markets with highly addictive opioid products that have been banned in European countries due to their dangerous properties. According to a recent BBC investigation, these pharmaceutical products are being imported without proper regulation or testing, bypassing health authorities through corrupt practices at ports and regulatory agencies. This investigation revealed how one Indian businessman, identified as Sharma, openly acknowledged the addictive nature of these drugs while continuing to market them aggressively in West Africa, viewing African lives as expendable in pursuit of profit.

The demographic vulnerability of Africa makes this crisis particularly concerning. With over 75% of the continent's population under the age of 35, these dangerous opioids are targeting the very foundation of Africa's future – its youth. This addiction pathway often forces users into criminal activities or prostitution to sustain their habits, creating a devastating cycle that destroys lives and communities. The social and economic implications of this crisis cannot be overstated, as a generation of young people becomes increasingly dependent on these substances rather than contributing to national development.

The regulatory failures highlight systemic weaknesses in West African governance structures. While European and Asian markets maintain strict regulations that prevent the sale of these dangerous substances, West African regulatory bodies like Ghana's Food and Drug Administration appear to be failing in their mandate to protect citizens.

There is historical precedent that MUST NOT be ignored. This current opioid crisis follows a troubling pattern where Africa has been used as a dumping ground for substandard or dangerous medical products. A BBC Radio 5 investigation from two decades ago found that 75% of anti-malarial drugs entering West African markets were counterfeit, demonstrating that today's opioid crisis is part of a longer history of pharmaceutical exploitation.

Source:

Exposing an Indian pharma firm fuelling West Africa's opioid crisis - BBC News

Support the show

Donate/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1793098/support

We offer a consultation session for those who wish to relocate to Ghana , do business in Ghana , buy land, buying a property or even starting business in Ghana. We offer professional support tailored on your needs and wants.

We provide valuable information that can assist you in your relocation like the Ghana card how/where to register your business.

We can also signpost you to other agencies that can help in your relocation as well as business and investment opportunities.

We charge a rate of US$30 for an hour's consultation or US$20 for a 30 minute consultation briefing.

To book your consultation please email ahodwo805@gmail.com

Subscribe on Youtube - just look for the Ghana/Afrika in Focus podcast on Youtube and click the notification bell so that every time I upload a new podcast it automatically comes to your feed.

Tell your family and friends.