Ithembalesiwe Centre in eMbalenhle rehabilitates addicts
We have established support groups where that is structured in a way that anyone coming to our centre can feel welcomed and also be able to trust us.
Ithembalesizwe is a rehabilitation centre to assist drug addicts to stop the use of drugs in Ext 12 at eMbalenhle.
This non-profit organisation was formed by young, unemployed youth after they realised that much other youth, in the area are drug users.
The organisation was established four years ago and aims to develop youth in the fight against drugs and substance abuse, including other social ills within the community.
Chairperson, Themba Ndlovu, said they are busy arranging activities for all those who quit drugs.
He said their stakeholders are police, social workers and local pastors who always provide spiritual guidance to the addicts.
“Since we began this organisation, more than ten youth had permanently quit drugs because of our programs.
“We have established support groups which are structured in a way that anyone who comes to our centre, can feel welcome and will also trust us.
“As an organisation, we believe in openness, trust and reliability,” said Ndlovu.
Ndlovu said they had started with five addicts, who are now leaders of the support groups.
Because of the growing number of addicts attending their centre, they now intend to extend the shelter to accommodate everyone who wants to quit drugs.
“I started by smoking dagga and crystal pills two years ago because of peer pressure and because I am unemployed, it was difficult for me to feed my addiction.
“My brother brought me to this centre. At first, I quit my addiction but after a few months, I started using the same drugs again.
“Then I realised that it was not good. I voluntarily came back. I started afresh with support group programs that helped me quit for good,” said Musa Kubheka.
Ndlovu said they also motivated them to go back to school while they are busy with rehabilitation and said they do not take anyone who is not willing to quit drugs.
“Parents bring their addicted children to our centre. The problem is that you find that their children are not ready to quit the addiction.
“After a few months of quitting, they start to use it again, and that is the reason we are saying we prefer someone who voluntarily wants to quit drugs,” said Ndlovu.
Ndlovu said their rehabilitation programs are on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting from 11:00.
Anyone who needs information can phone Themba Ndlovu on 072 129 2205 or Richard Ndzukula on 072 164 2379.
