Siphosensimbi Community Health Centre pilots methadone therapy in eMalahleni
Nyaope users to have new hope as methadone pilot comes to Siphosensimbi Community Health Centre.
For families living with the impact of opioid abuse, the introduction of a new treatment programme at Siphosensimbi Community Health Centre could offer a new source of hope.
Parents, drug users and community stakeholders gathered at the facility for an Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT) information session on August 18, where they learnt about methadone treatment and how it can assist people who are dependent on opioids.
The session placed particular focus on nyaope, a drug that has become prevalent in South Africa in recent years, with devastating effects on families and communities.
Department pilots clinic treatment
The programme is being piloted by the Department of Health, with eMalahleni among the sites selected to introduce OAT services. The department’s Dr Kgalabi Ngako spoke to participants about the pilot and the role of methadone in treating opioid dependence.
The programme will initially provide methadone to about 15 people at the clinic, with the pilot expected to run for an extended period while the department assesses its implementation.
Community voices support initiative
A parent, Marie Mage, said the availability of treatment closer to the community could encourage more people to seek help.
“It is important that they can come to a clinic for treatment,” said Mage. “Sometimes families do not know where to take someone who is using drugs. We hope this programme will make a difference.”
One attendee said people who use nyaope should not automatically be labelled as criminals or viewed negatively.
Thabang Skosana, who uses drugs, said the information session helped him understand that there are healthcare options available.
“People think we don’t want to stop,” said Skosana. “Some of us want help, but it is not easy to stop on your own. If there is treatment that can help with the cravings, we need to know about it and have access to it.”
Thando Masango, an anti-drug activist, said the community must be part of the conversation around substance abuse and treatment.
“We are very encouraged by this initiative,” said Masango.”It gives hope to our communities, especially families who have been struggling with loved ones affected by nyaope. We want people who use drugs to know that there is help available and that they should not be afraid to come forward and seek support.”
READ MORE: Happy Day Centre sparks dreams on career day
Residents in Phola and Ogies are urged to prepare as a reduced water supply is set to disrupt daily routines
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) April 8, 2026
Read more here :https://t.co/ttlIcKw4QJ pic.twitter.com/1lVKxjqGVL
Your city, your story, as it happens. Stay in the loop with WITBANK NEWS.
Find us on our website, Facebook, X, Instagram or TikTok
Got a tip? Email: info@witbanknews.co.za
