Refrain from drug abuse and set yourselves free - Queenmother advises youth

Nana Sompahemaa Tante Hawa, the esteemed leader of the Suma Traditional Council in the Bono Region's Jaman North District, has delivered a crucial message to the youth, urging them to steer clear of drug abuse and behaviors that tarnish their credibility in society.

In an exclusive telephone interview, Sompahemaa Tante Hawa expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of youth attempting to deviate from Ghanaian cultural norms.

She strongly condemned the practice among young men of wearing earrings, particularly in their noses, questioning the origins of this cultural shift.

Sompahemaa emphasized that such lifestyles are contrary to Ghanaian culture and are not endorsed by either the Christian or Muslim faiths.

She lamented the adoption of feminine hairstyles and earring styles by young men, expressing her determination to combat this trend and restore traditional values.

Reflecting on her unexpected ascension to the position of Sompahemaa, regardless of her Muslim faith, Sompahemaa Tante Hawa underscored the importance of humility, discipline, and decency. She highlighted the alarming and disgraceful behaviors exhibited by today's youth, which she believes pose a threat to the country's cultural integrity.

Calling upon the government to implement measures to deter youth from engaging in undisciplined conduct, Sompahemaa expressed hope that Traditional Councils nationwide would enact traditional laws to address issues like teenage pregnancies.

In addition, Nana Sompahemaa Tante Hawa urged parents to cultivate strong relationships with their children and fulfill their needs to provide a sense of parental guidance.

She advised both young men and women to prioritize their education and consider the future implications of their actions, emphasizing the importance of seizing educational opportunities for personal advancement.