Elsies River teens step up against drug abuse
A GROUP of youngsters from Elsies River attended a fitness Expo to mark International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The Western Cape Departments of Social Development and Health were joined by the Western Cape on Wellness group WoW! to launch the Zumba Fitness Expo. About 60 teenagers also went through a dance exercise routine in the Adriaanse Community Hall to celebrate youth month.
“Driven by a focus to see a healthy youth, this expo is one step towards that. It’s good to see young people who want to make a difference,” said Elsies River councillor Chris Jordaan.
Albert Fritz, MEC for Social Development, and Nomafrench Mbombo, MEC for Health, joined in the exercise routine.
The Western Cape government said 80% of youth in the area struggled with a myriad problems.
“This expo is just one step towards a healthy youth and a healthy mind and that is how we take back our community from drugs or being on the street.
“It is good that we are doing this in Elsies River where the murder of Courtney Peters happened. It is to show that the community of Elsies River is not just about drugs, murder or gangsterism, but also exercise, health and looking out for our people.
“This is the message we have to drive to society. We are approaching holidays now… it is important to keep the youth away from the streets.”
‘IT’S GOOD TO SEE YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE’