Tshwane metro step up to eradicate substance abuse
“Drugs and substance abuse, particularly by the youth, have a destructive impact on families and communities at large."
The Tshwane metro appointed a Local Drug Action Committee (LDAC) to fight substance abuse by youths within Tshwane on July 26.
Mayor Randall Williams joined health MMC Rina Marx to launch the committee.
The committee consist of 22 members representing different spheres of society, including law enforcement, government, health and civic society groups, among many others.
“The establishment of this committee is a significant step in the fight against substance abuse in Tshwane.
“Drugs and substance abuse, particularly by the youth, have a destructive impact on families and communities at large.
“And they often lead to domestic and gang violence, assaults, robberies and other criminal activities,” said Williams.
Dereleen James, representing Central Drug Authority, said she was a mother that was affected by substance use disorder.
“And it gives me great pleasure to be part of this initiative in the launching of LDAC because as a mother with someone that’s been affected I’ve been there.
“I know what it feels like not to get help from the police.”
James said her message was that substance use disorder does not discriminate – it happens to the best of us.
“I’m just pleased that as an authority we can support, guide and plan and monitor all efforts when it comes to the implementation of the national drug master plan.
Williams said the administration has prioritised drug and substance abuse programmes.
“In our current 2022/23 financial year budget, an allocation of R31.7-million has been provisioned to empower anti-drug and substance abuse programmes.
“One of our flagship programmes is the Community Oriented Substance Use Programme (Cosup) which we run in partnership with the University of Pretoria.
“Cosup aims to prevent, treat, rehabilitate and reintegrate people affected by drugs and other substance abuses,” he said.
Williams said they also run a 24-hour toll-free helpline to provide support for matters related to substance abuse.
“The Hope line can be contacted on 0800 611 197 or 0800 467 347.
“With our various programmes already in place, the LDAC will serve as a co-ordinating mechanism to ensure that all resources are used effectively to fight substance abuse.
“The committee will also be tasked with developing an action plan to combat substance abuse in Tshwane,” he said.
Williams thanked all the organisations and stakeholders involved.
“It is important that we all work together to ensure that Tshwane does not become a capital city for nyaope and other substances.”
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