South Africa: In celebration of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Department of Social Development hosted a drug awareness campaign at Grassland High School Hall in Bloemspruit on 29 June 2022.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is marked on 26 June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.
Each year, individuals, communities and various organizations all over the world join in to observe World Drug Day raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs pose to society.
Various stakeholders such as SAPS, ASUD, Mondea Health and the Department of Health etc. were present to rely on information about the services they provide for communities in the quest to make this a Drug free country.
The Heidedal Youth Group graced the audience with a drama performance depicting the dangers of substance abuse. All the performers used to be drug addicts/users, thus addressing substance abuse from their experiences.
The community of Bloemspruit engaged with the stakeholders and voiced their frustrations about the problem at hand. In closing, Mr Leloko, Social Work Manager under the Prevention and Treatment for Substance Abuse Directorate, encouraged community members to utilize programmes, facilities and support initiatives provided by the Department of Social Development for their benefit.
He further promised to take the grievances of the community members to the Provincial forum and consolidate an action plan in response to the challenges.
