Tembisa Drugs Rehabilitation Movement welcomes former addicts
Family and community members celebrated the homecoming of ex drug users.
On July 18, Tembisa Drugs Rehabilitation Movement hosted a welcome ceremony for young people who went to rehab three months ago at Difateng, Thembisa.
According to Thato Matome, the founder of Tembisa Drugs Rehabilitation Movement, 11 young men went to rehab in April and the goal to welcome them on Mandela Day is to demonstrate to them that they are future leaders.
“We want them to understand that we view them as the next president of our amazing country and that we count on them to protect our future leaders from being wrecked by drugs.
“I can assure other drug users that the Tembisa Drugs Rehabilitation Movement is there for them because we want to rescue our soldiers who have fallen into the trap of using drugs.
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“When the first group of drug addicts were transferred to a Pretoria rehab, the residents of Difateng were on the street dancing and singing.
Drug addicts attend a session once a week and doctors have offered to assess the problem and administer the appropriate treatment.
“Anyone who wants to get hold of me can call me on 073 729 2429,” said Matome.
The community of Thembisa applauds the founder of the organisation for his initiative for taking such a big step in helping the community fight drug abuse.
One person from the rehabilitation centre, Sfiso Rametsi said, “I want to thank Thato for helping us and encouraging us to change.
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“My journey was not an easy one. We struggled a lot but here I am today.
“I hope other young people will see us and want to be like us one day,” said Rametsi.
Tebogo Sono from rehab said, “I hope that the new generation will not fall into the same trap as me. I have been using drugs for long but this programme has helped me a lot.”
Community members acknowledge the young men and how they celebrates 67 minutes on Mandela Day.
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Mariam Rametsi, one of the community members, said that she is happy and would like to thank God for what transpired today.
Zodwa Ndlovu further said that she appreciates what Thato has done for their children and hope they are not the last ones to be helped fighting drugs in their community.
