A community-focused substance abuse awareness campaign was held on Friday, 20 June at the Batswaneng Section in Khutsong Township, aimed at educating residents about the dangers of substance abuse and providing resources for those in need of help.

The initiative was launched in response to ongoing social challenges in the area, including recent violent incidents and a tragic death linked to substance-related issues. The campaign brought together various stakeholders committed to creating a safer and healthier community.

Key participants included the Khutsong Community Policing Forum (CPF), who conducted visible patrols during the event. The West Rand District Municipality also deployed its Rapid Response Task Team, led by Mama Mnisi, to support the effort. Other organisations present included the Victim Empowerment Centre, represented by Lungiswa Mgcwabe, and local activist Patricia Rabanye, who both addressed the crowd on the impacts of substance abuse.

The campaign also featured the Gender-Based Violence Brigade and MASAK, who spoke about the support services they offer for victims of violence and addiction.

Community members were actively involved and expressed a need for youth-targeted activities to prevent young people from turning to harmful behaviours such as underage drinking and drug use. Organisers noted that Batswaneng will be revisited in the near future to assess progress and implement further interventions if needed.

This campaign forms part of a broader effort to tackle substance abuse, youth delinquency, and gender-based violence in vulnerable communities across Merafong.