Community Leader Urges Youth Empowerment and Unity in Bono East

The Municipal Imam of Ahlus-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah in Techiman, Alhaji Idris Suleman Abdulai, has passionately appealed for peace, youth empowerment, and immediate action to combat the growing problem of substance abuse in the region.

Speaking after congregational prayers on May 27, the respected Islamic cleric stressed that peace remains the foundation for development and progress in every community. According to him, the future of the Bono East Region depends largely on how society protects, mentors, and empowers its young people.

“Peace is the foundation of everything we hope to achieve,” Imam Abdulai stated during an interview with TV3 correspondent Belinda Tetteh.

The Imam further called on local authorities, community leaders, and stakeholders to invest in sustainable opportunities for the youth. He explained that unemployment and lack of direction often push many young people into harmful social activities, making mentorship and job creation more important than ever.

Addressing the alarming rise in drug and substance abuse among the youth in Techiman and nearby communities, Imam Abdulai expressed deep concern over the increasing number of young lives being destroyed.

“We are losing brilliant minds to substance abuse every single day,” he lamented.

Describing the situation as a “ticking time bomb,” the Imam urged families, religious bodies, schools, and government institutions to work together to tackle the crisis before it worsens. He emphasized that collective action, education, and community support are essential to saving the next generation and securing a better future for the region.