‘Sundi’, a New Form of Snuff and Substance Abuse Among Residents of the Tamale Metropolis, Northern Ghana

This study investigates the use of “sundi”, a substance abused by people in the Tamale Metropolis. It identified the types of “sundi” commonly used among adults, such as AK47 Boss, Hajia Ayisha manpower, Sheihu Barhama etc. The process of using the ‘sundi’ in its moist form is called “soobu”. The study employed qualitative approach. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to identify 80 participants. Data were collected through interview guide and focus group discussions with both men and women residing in the Tamale Metropolis. Through thematic analysis of the data, key themes emerged from the interviews, including knowledge of “sundi”, individual experience with the “sundi”, types of “sundi” and health implications of the use of “sundi”. The key theme that emerged from the focus group discussions is the “sundi” consumption patterns. The study revealed diverse insights into the impact of “sundi” substance on individuals and the community, indicating the reasons for “sundi” use and the various substances that are often mixed with it. The study makes recommendations to the Ghana Health Services, the Ministry of Health, Ghana Education Service, to implement comprehensive drug prevention programs, and strengthen law enforcement efforts to combat drug trafficking. Also, emphasizing awareness creation about the dangers of substance abuse and promoting community engagement is vital in tackling this complex issue. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on narcotic substance abuse and provides valuable insights to policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders working towards the prevention of drug abuse in the Tamale Metropolis. In conclusion, this study found that substance abuse has heavily impacted negatively on the lives of the young people in the Tamale metropolis.