Gauteng launches fightback against ills of drug abuse

Gauteng, and SA at large, is increasingly vulnerable to substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking. Drugs such as crystal methamphetamine, nyaope, heroin and dagga are a great concern, and so are their easy availability and devastating socioeconomic impact.

The deadly ramifications require the government to embark on a social movement to mobilise individuals and respective sectors against the scourge.

Substance abuse affects everyone directly and indirectly and undermines efforts to accelerate social transformation and sustainable development. Research studies indicate a direct link between drug abuse and social ills of crime, domestic violence, teenage pregnancy, school dropouts and child abuse among others.

Bent on helping realise government’s goal to get rid of drugs on the streets of Gauteng, the recently appointed premier, Panyaza Lesufi, launched a new initiative to rehabilitate youth addicted to drugs. This formed part if the province’s 2030 vision to put youth at the centre of policy-making decisions, as well as the economy.

This will be spearheaded by Gauteng social development, under MEC Mbali Hlophe. The department reiterates the importance of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary intervention to the complex issue of substance abuse.

In 2020, the department developed the Gauteng city region anti-substance abuse strategy to ensure the government takes reasonable measures to combat substance abuse, with emphasis on three pillars: Harm reduction – provision of holistic treatment to substance users and their families, and mitigation against the social, psychological and health impact of abuse; Demand reduction – to discourage the abuse of substances by members of communities, the emphasis is on prevention and awareness programmes. The Ke Moja campaign deploys ambassadors, peers and coaches, including to schools, to proactively educate about dangers of substance abuse.

Kick It, an award-winning television educational documentary, aired on SABC for two seasons of 13-part episodes, using recovered users; and Supply reduction – efforts aimed at stopping the production, distribution of illicit substances and associated crimes thorough enhanced law enforcement as provided for in law. These pillars have yielded results, but much more is to be done.

In a different strategy, Lesufi recently launched a 24-hour substance abuse hotline. Led by trained call centre agents, it serves as a lifeline and platform for those affected, with the ultimate goal of assisting admission to rehabilitation facilities for treatment.

This does not end with a call; designated social workers make contact with an aim to assist those affected. Assessments are done to recommend the relevant intervention. This approach will also see the upscaling of linking beneficiaries with a strong skills support, development, and aftercare programme offered over the years.

Residents , various government departments, civil society, churches and law enforcement must band together to confront this horrendous plague that robs SA of the youth and their future.

Call 0800-228827 or email GPAntiSubtanceAbuse@Gauteng.gov.za or USSD *134*474727.