Mpumalanga named a hotspot for drug trafficking
Provincial authorities intensify education and prevention initiatives against drug use and trafficking.
Mpumalanga has become a hotspot for drug trafficking, human trafficking and illegal immigration, according to the Department of Social Development (DSD).
This was revealed during the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on Thursday, June 26. The national awareness day was marked with events across the country, with Mpumalanga’s provincial gathering held at Sakhile Stadium in Standerton.
The focus of the day was to raise awareness around issues affecting youth, public health and organised crime. A growing concern highlighted by the department was the rising number of children experimenting with drugs from as young as 10 years old.
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In the lead-up to the commemoration, the DSD, in partnership with the Central Drug Authority, conducted a week-long outreach campaign across the Gert Sibande District from June 22 to 25.
The programme focused on substance abuse prevention, education and recovery support.
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Officials visited schools, taverns, churches and other communal spaces to engage in honest conversations about the dangers of drug use and the long-term impact of addiction.
