Can Cape Flats communities free themselves from the scourge of alcohol, drug abuse?

WHEN reporting on the many societal problems in Cape Town, authorities mention various causes. Residents’ own use and abuse of drugs in this regard are unfortunately often under-emphasized, especially on the Cape Flats.

Residents are quick to criticise government authorities for failure to fulfil their mandate in addressing these ills. They are, however, slow to accept responsibility for their own destructive habits such as these. What is however needed for people to do so?

Both on the part of the perpetrators and the victims, these substances have been implicated in women and child abuse, gangsterism, assault, murder, robbery, vandalism, rape, worsening poverty, and pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents.

The ban on alcohol sales during previous lockdowns to help prevent the spread of Covid-19, was therefore a major relief for those adversely affected by the abuse thereof.

Even if no health epidemic existed, residents still need to comprehend the enormous socio-economic benefits of their communities being alcohol and drug free areas. There will no doubt be a dramatic decrease in incidents of all these social problems.

Has the time come for residents to also demand the closure of shebeens and spaza shops selling alcohol in their neighbourhoods; just as with drug houses?

Can neighbourhoods on the Cape Flats be wise and brave enough to free themselves from the scourge of alcohol and drugs? Do their ward councillors currently play any role in this regard? R BARTES | Manenberg