The Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, has held discussions with the Algerian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mourad Louhaidia, to explore potential collaboration in addressing drug abuse and trafficking.

This was during a courtesy call paid by the Ambassador to the Director-General last Thursday in Accra, aimed at examining ways in which the Commission can partner with the Algerian government to address the growing concern of drug addiction and trafficking, particularly among adolescents across Africa.

Brig. Gen. Mantey affirmed NACOC’s commitment to partnering with Algeria to leverage opportunities that will strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two countries, especially in areas related to narcotics control.

He noted that such international collaboration will help enhance the capacity of NACOC staff in carrying out operational duties.

“We are happy to partner with the Algerian government in the fight against narcotic drug abuse and trafficking, and look forward to engaging on platforms that will help build the capacity of our staff,” he stated.

The Ambassador Louhaidia expressed his office’s readiness to collaborate with NACOC on initiatives that will benefit both parties.

He highlighted capacity-building efforts and proposed exchange programmes that would allow selected NACOC staff to visit Algeria as well as engage with the national anti-drug agency to learn about effective procedures and the successes of Algeria’s narcotics control efforts.

Ambassador Louhaidia also raised concerns about the increasing rate of drug addiction among African youth, including in Algeria.

“Due to our proximity to Europe and neighbouring Morocco, one of the world’s largest producers of cannabis, there is a significant threat to the health and safety of our citizens. In response, the Algerian government has implemented measures through its mandated state agencies to curb this menace,” he stated.

He reiterated Algeria’s commitment to working with NACOC, particularly in the areas of drug addiction, maritime security, surveillance, and intelligence gathering.

He added that Algeria is open to supporting NACOC officers in taking part in training programmes aimed at strengthening their operational capabilities.

Judith Twumwaa, ISD