Fighting against drug abuse in KwaDukuza

A deeper look into the KwaDukuza community would paint a grim picture of residents whose lives are destroyed from their addiction to drugs and substance abuse.

Realising the growing problem, KwaDukuza municipality agreed to step in and build a proper, fully equipped KwaDukuza rehabilitation and treatment centre.

Currently Ilembe and KwaDukuza do not have a treatment centre even though reports and police observations show that a large number of people are exposed to the social ills of drug addiction.

DA Ward 22 councillor Malcolm Hubner said that the centre is long overdue.

“Drugs and alcohol are destroying people’s lives. It is time that the government step in to try and help eradicate the problem that is darkening our area.

“The KwaDukuza council has approved to set up a task team to look into the establishment of the rehabilitation and treatment centre  and council will monitor the progress. The human capital who will help with the centre will be identified through Dr Mthunzi from Stanger hospital,” said Hubner.

This year’s national crime statistics showed an increase of 174 cases in drug related crime in KwaDukuza from last year’s 1168 to this year at 1342.

South Africa has been rated the country with second highest cases of serious drug and substance abuse.

Umhlali Police spokesperson warrant Officer Vinny Pillay said that it is mostly people around the ages of 13-20.

“In communities like Etete, Groutville, Shakaskraal we find many young people who are are addicted to drugs. They are also not going to school and that is a serious problem.

“Whoonga and dagga are also being sold in schools. Drug dealers are getting children to sell to their school mates because who would suspect a child of carrying drugs?” he said.

A drug master plan is still to be discussed by councillors and government departments.

All KDM councilors are working together to identify savings and funds that will be used to secure dilapidated buildings for refurbishment or a farm that can be used as the new KwaDukuza rehabilitation and treatment centre.

>>> For more events this holiday check out our Events calender.

>>> Need some ideas for things to do? Check out Holiday Vibes.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join us on BBM at 59015786
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.