160 admitted as substance abuse rehab initiative launches near Heidelberg
The Gauteng Department of Social Development has kicked off a mass admissions programme to tackle substance abuse across the province.
In a decisive step toward fighting substance abuse, the Gauteng Department of Social Development has launched a mass admissions initiative that will see 160 individuals admitted to rehabilitation centres across the province.
The launch took place on June 30 at the Mabutho Hlatswayo Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC) – formerly Luckhoff School – just outside Heidelberg.
The event was led by Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Faith Mazibuko, who monitored the implementation and increased access to treatments at various institutions in Gauteng.
“We are responding to a call by Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who stressed in the State of the Province Address that substance abuse interventions must be massified,” said Mazibuko.
“This mass initiative will ensure that even underserved communities have equal access to treatment and support.”
Lesedi Local Municipality Mayor Mluleki Nkosi also addressed attendees, praising the mass intake as a huge step in addressing the abuse and getting the abusers to rehab centres and back into the community as contributing members of society.
“This mass intake is a significant step toward rehabilitating abusers and reintegrating them as contributing members of society,” Nkosi said.
“The Heidelberg intake will begin on July 15 (for roughly a three-month stay), with 160 admissions to various institutions around Gauteng. Some 50 individuals will be admitted to the Mabutho Hlatswayo CYCC as part of the Southern Corridor’s contribution.”
Each participant will undergo a rigorous screening and counselling process during their stay, with a strong focus on healing, responsibility, and reintegration.
“You need to work to ensure that family and friends see a real difference,” Nkosi told the new enrollees. “You must show that you want to be rid of the drug evil.”
Following the formalities, rehabilitation institutions gathered in the hall, where substance use applicants were enrolled in their respective institutions.
The initiative underscores the provincial government’s integrated approach to fighting substance abuse, with the dual goal of expanding access to treatment and restoring dignity to individuals and families impacted by addiction.
The Department of Social Development encourages communities to support individuals on this journey and spread awareness that treatment is available, accessible and life-changing.
