In a vibrant display of advocacy and Christian responsibility, members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church took to the streets of Ahafo Hwidiem to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and gambling. The event marked the climax of Drug Awareness Month, an initiative championed by the West-Central Africa Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church under the theme:
“Alcohol and Gambling Addiction: A Threat to the Development of the African Youth.”

The walk was organized by the Green-View Ghana Conference, which coordinated a month-long series of activities across its churches to address the increasing threat of substance abuse and gambling among the youth. These activities included health talks, counseling sessions, medical screenings, outreach to drug rehabilitation points, and the distribution of assorted gifts—such as food items, literature, and drinks—to individuals battling addiction. These efforts were aimed at demonstrating Christ-like compassion and assuring addicts that the Church still cares and remembers them.

Marching through the principal streets of Hwidiem, church members held up placards with bold, thought-provoking messages such as:
“Alcohol triggers mood swings and emotional instability,”
“Gambling addiction causes poverty through excessive spending,” and
“Alcohol leads to chronic heart diseases.”
These messages were designed to educate the public and warn against the growing menace threatening the moral, physical, and economic wellbeing of young people.

The street walk attracted positive attention from the community. Several bystanders and residents expressed their support for the initiative and encouraged the Church to sustain such awareness campaigns, noting that many young people are unknowingly falling prey to the traps of addiction and destructive habits.

The walk ended at the Hwidiem Senior High School, where Mrs. Abigail Ahema Otoo, Health Ministries Director of the Green-View Ghana Conference, addressed the student body and youth in attendance. In her address, she emphasized the urgent need to abstain from illicit drugs and gambling. “Alcohol and gambling do not only damage the body but also hinder our spiritual growth and relationship with God. As Christians, we must guard our minds and bodies from these destructive vices,” she urged.

To crown the day with fellowship and rejuvenation, a series of recreational games were held between members from Goaso South and Hwidiem Districts. The games included sack races, netball, volleyball, and football matches—all of which fostered community bonding, physical health, and joy among participants.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church remains committed to promoting holistic health and spiritual well-being. As Drug Awareness Month comes to an end, the Church continues to advocate for proactive measures to combat addiction and equip young people with the knowledge and strength to live purpose-driven, Christ-centered lives.