By Isaac Arkoh
Cape Coast, June 12, GNA – The Cape Coast Youth Development Association (CCYDA) has voiced out serious concerns over the rising incidence of teenage mothers, particularly in the coastal communities of the historic city.
The Association noted that the trend was causing a population surge with significant social, economic, political, and cultural repercussions for the area.
“In the busy streets where childhood innocence should thrive, young girls, still children themselves are seen carrying babies, trapped in a distressing cycle.
“How many of these neglected young mothers, deprived of guidance and care, can genuinely nurture the fragile lives they hold? This troubling scene reflects a vicious cycle of poverty and despair, where childhood is lost and hope diminishes,” CCYDA stated.
Mr Cole Arthur, Organiser of the Association, expressed worry that many young girls had dropped out of school and were facing financial hardships.
He told the Ghana News Agency in an interview that the challenges did not only jeopardise the health and futures of young mothers but also imposed heavy burdens on families and society.
Mr Arthur also expressed alarm over the growing abuse of hard drugs among the youth, citing tramadol, “red-red,” and marijuana as commonly misused substances.
He emphasised that many young people engaged in drug use without fully understanding the severe consequences, leading to addiction, mental health decline, and increased petty crimes.
He described as “disturbing” the rise of viral social media videos showing intoxicated youth incapacitated in public places, reflecting a dangerous disregard for safety and public order and reinforcing stereotypes.
Such behaviour limits future opportunities, as addiction and misconduct often hinder education and employment.
Mr Arthur attributed much of the crisis to parental neglect, explaining that the absence of guidance at home pushed many youths toward harmful survival strategies.
Peer pressure and weak family bonds also contribute significantly to teen pregnancy and drug abuse.
Without emotional support and mentorship, young people frequently seek acceptance from peers, which could lead to risky behaviours.
Additionally, societal stigma and limited educational access worsen the problem, creating a difficult-to-break cycle.
He called for a comprehensive approach involving community support programmes, parental education, and accessible counselling to foster healthier home and community environments.
Mr Arthur urged community leaders, parents, and policymakers to intensify efforts to educate youth on drug risks, support those struggling with addiction and implement preventive measures.
“Only by addressing these root causes can Ghana unlock the full potential of its coastal youth and transform these communities into thriving centres of innovation and progress,” he noted.
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/Christian Akorlie