On Friday, 14 February, Gauteng Social Development MEC Faith Mazibuko took the fight against drug abuse to the community of Evaton in Sedibeng.
This is part of the Gauteng Department of Social Development anti-drug campaign Ke Moja Fridays. The campaign seeks to enlighten and inform communities about the harmful effects of substance abuse. It also seeks to sensitise the public, particularly young people, about the harmful effects of alcohol and drug abuse. Ensure that different stakeholders participate in the fight against alcohol and drug abuse. Provide information to the community on available resources and support systems regarding substance abuse and communities to take action in combating alcohol and drug abuse.
The department, as the lead in the field of substance abuse, is also mandated by the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act, Act No. 70 of 2008, to provide for the establishment of programs and intervention in response to the scourge. The area is besieged by a number of social ills, such as unemployment, poverty, substance abuse and the trading of illicit drugs.
The campaign included state departments such as Home Affairs, Labour, SASSA, NDA and Emfuleni Local Council, as well as non-profit organisations, as they extend services and offer assistance to those who wish to overcome addiction and the community that is seeking access to government services.
Issued by the Gauteng Department of Social Development
