Local NPO, community organisations tackle substance abuse at Sosh schools
The project was started late last year as drug and substance abuse was becoming an issue in the area, said Mabusela.
A local NPO and community organisations in Soshanguve recently launched an early intervention programme to prevent the youth from substance abuse at various schools in the area.
The Lentswe la Baahi project aims to empower the youth by letting them know of the dangers of using drugs at an early age, according to Godwin Mabusela (29).
Mabusela is the co-founder and general secretary of the Neighbourhood Watch NPO which seeks to solve issues of crime, drugs and youth employment in the community.
“Our goal is to educate learners on drugs, general health as well as safety by engaging with them to make them aware of the effects and dangers, and to help them prepare better for their future and make right decisions.”
The project was started late last year as drug and substance abuse was becoming an issue in the area, said Mabusela.
“These have a long-term negative effect on the present and future of the user. At some point, it can also harm the family of the user and also on the person’s academic performance.’’
Mabusela said it was the project’s goal to shape the community and build a safer place for all.
“Charity begins at home so currently we are focused on Soshanguve, however, through building relevant partnerships and creating relationships I believe we can expand to other parts of Pretoria and even the country.
“Our success depends on the participation of our members, intervention of our community and also partnerships. We also appreciate the support of the local police station.”
Soshanguve police spokesperson Constable Peter Zondi said the campaign also comprised of police patrolling in the morning, accompanying those who had previously fallen victim to robberies to and from work.
“Even the elderly who visited the local Maria Rontho clinic were helped to ensure they were safe.”
Zondi said police had to ensure that the Lentswe la Baahi campaign was in line with the Constitution and no one’s rights were infringed.
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