VANDERBIJLPARK – The Jamela Rehabilitation Centre continues to serve as an agent of change in the Vaal Triangle, offering individuals struggling with drug and substance addiction a fresh start in life.

More than 90 patients have embarked on their journey to recovery at the centre. Jamela goes beyond just treatment and counselling, it ensures that individuals leave the 90-day rehabilitation programme with practical skills they can use to rebuild their lives. Training includes chicken farming, computer literacy, and welding.

Speaking to Ster North, Head Psychiatric Nurse Christina Ramushu highlighted that patients come from various parts of the country. “The staff are committed to helping our service users improve their lives, and the patients themselves are working hard to turn things around,” she said.

When Director Dr George Sibanda established the centre eight years ago, he envisioned a facility that could rescue and transform the lives of those often dismissed by society. The vision has since become a reality, supported by the dedicated team working tirelessly to support recovery

Ramushu believes that everyone deserves a second chance. She emphasised that the partnership between the Department of Health and the centre has been key to addressing the growing need for comprehensive addiction recovery services.

“It would’ve been easy for society to ignore these individuals, but thanks to a caring government and committed professionals like Dr Sibanda, we are changing lives every day.”

The staff embraces challenges, viewing them as opportunities to grow stronger and more effective. Working alongside social workers, they continue to develop and improve their skills to better serve the patients.

In addition, the centre operates a fully equipped mobile clinic, designed to lessen pressure on the main facility by handling outpatient visits. This mobile service ensures more people can access support, particularly those who can’t be accommodated on-site.