Teboho Setena
Continuing the efforts for a drug-free society, youths are encouraged to become anchors of the national anti-drug programme “Ke Moja, I’m fine without Drugs.”
Nokuzola Tolashe, minister of the Department of Social Development, and Mathabo Leeto, provincial MEC for social development, made the clarion call and challenged the rest of society to join the campaign.
This was during a series of events held in the province marking this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking. This year’s theme is “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
In 1987, the United Nations (UN) designated 26 June as the comemmoration day, recognising drug abuse as a global issue.
According to Leeto, the theme highlights a need for prevention efforts to reduce substance abuse and promote safer, healthier communities. Henceforth, youths are encouraged to embrace the running anti-drug campaign, a national substance abuse prevention programme operating across all the nine provinces in South Africa.
Events were held in the Ramakgari Extension in Thaba Nchu and at the Kutlwanong High School in Odendaalsrus, on 26 and 27 June, respectively.
“Thaba Nchu and Kutlwanong were chosen as the venue after profiling revealed a high number of young people using drugs. This trend has contributed to increased gang-related activity and other social ills in the area. Thaba Nchu is a high-risk area following increased reports of drug use, especially among school learners,” said Leeto.
“This initiative aims to strengthen action and foster cooperation in the pursuit of a world free from drug abuse. The South African government joined this global effort, aligning itself with the mission to combat drug-related challenges,” said Tolashe.
Discussions by a panel of experts from various organisations discussed various ways to curb youths’ involvement in drugs. These include the Department of Health, police, Lovelife, Goldfields Family Advice Organisation, Guardian Angels, and the Charlotte Maxeke Treatment Centre.
“This engagement underscores the importance for dialogue among the youth, community members, stakeholders, leadership, social workers, and health professionals to offer immediate assistance and support,” said Tolashe.
The public and affected individuals are encouraged to support the “Ke Moja” WhatsApp chat platform at 087 163 2025 as a form to fight substance abuse.
