From Springs to Limpopo: Five men reach destination
After walking over 400km from Springs, five men finally reached Limpopo to hand over a powerful message to the premier.
Five men who embarked on a 400km walk from Springs to Limpopo to raise awareness and funds in the fight against drug addiction have successfully reached their destination.
The journey formed part of the #011walkforjustice015 campaign, a grassroots initiative aimed at confronting the country’s drug crisis.
Heins Makofane, Morithi Nkadimeng, Japhta Matotoka, Sabelo Sibiya and Sketere walked from Gauteng to Limpopo, determined to meet with Limpopo premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and deliver a memorandum calling for increased support in tackling drug abuse.
“Our memorandum requested the donation of a rehabilitation centre and vehicles to help transport addicts to rehab facilities,” Matotoka explained.
On June 25, the group arrived at the premier’s office to formally submit the document. They later visited the University of Limpopo, where they engaged with students in a candid discussion on substance abuse.
“The learners were able to share their experiences with us.It was a fruitful gathering and made us realise just how common drug addiction is among young people, and that many are already aware of its devastating consequences,” Matotoka said.
Despite sustaining leg injuries and facing other challenges along the way, the group stayed united in their mission.
“It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. What made it meaningful was that we were focused on one goal. Even when injuries slowed us down, we made sure we didn’t leave anyone behind,” Nkadimeng said.
Upon arrival in Limpopo, the men received a warm welcome. They were accommodated in a hotel and invited to Moletjhi FM to share their story with a wider audience.
While the walk was also meant to raise funds for anti-drug initiatives, the group expressed disappointment at the lack of sponsorship follow-through from individuals who had initially promised support.
“We’ll continue to fight against drug addiction and carry on the work we’ve started. Any assistance going forward will be greatly appreciated,” said Matotoka.
The five returned to Gauteng on June 30 and now plan to deliver a similar memorandum to Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi, continuing their advocacy for greater intervention and support in the battle against drug abuse.
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