LDAC leads four-day roadshow to address drug abuse in Ehlanzeni
The local committee, together with other stakeholders, visited four local municipalities to educate the communities about the dangers of using unregistered rehabilitation centres.
The Mbombela’s Local Drug Action Committee (LDAC), the Department of Social Development (DSD) and other stakeholders embarked on a four-day roadshow in the Ehlanzeni District from October 13 to 16.
The roadshow aimed to combat drug abuse, promote a drug-free society and strengthen social cohesion.
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Sibusiso Mthembu, the LDAC chairperson, said the initiative – themed “Siyabalandza”, meaning “we are fetching them” – focused on education and awareness, particularly on pathways for admitting people struggling with substance abuse into rehabilitation centres.
“The organisation hopes to make communities aware of legitimate facilities that provide substance abuse solutions,” Mthembu explained. “Some organisations operate illegally, and because of a lack of awareness people end up paying large sums of money without receiving proper help. We need to educate our communities about the registered organisations we work with to prevent people from becoming victims.”
He added that tackling drug abuse is a collective effort to eradicate the scourge from society. Mthembu also noted that the province is currently facing a rise in drug abuse, and available facilities are insufficient to meet the demand.
The roadshow targeted communities in Nkomazi, the City of Mbombela, Bushbuckridge and Thaba Chweu local municipalities.
Kanego Thete, the spokesperson for the DSD, said nine people were rescued during the roadshow.
She added that the initiative addressed several key issues, including raising awareness of services at public inpatient treatment centres, educating the public about the patient admission process, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders and discouraging the use of unregistered facilities.
The roadshow was conducted in partnership with SAPS, the Department of Health, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, and local municipalities.
