Ekurhuleni Mayor Tania Campbell has called for solutions that are based on the realities faced by those affected by drug and substance abuse.
She also urged for societal contribution to resolving this scourge that has become one of the most alarming social ills facing society today.
Campbell was speaking at the launch of the Local Drug Action Committee (LDAC) at the Germiston Banquet Hall in Germiston on April 29.
As part of the launch, the mayor presented appointment letters to 26 LDAC members who will be the foot soldiers interacting with the community to find solutions to end the scourge of substance abuse.
She said the City has committed itself to build an environment that supports strong community involvement and public participation to eradicate social skills.
“We will continue to work with partners to deliver drug and substance abuse prevention programmes,” said the mayor.
The drug and substance abuse prevention strategy, shared during the launch, informs the City’s approach to implementing interventions to curtail the use and abuse of drugs in the City.
Pillars of operation:
• Demand reduction: assisting those who have been identified as being at risk before they require statutory intervention, rehabilitation or placement in alternative care.
• Harm reduction: to provide a safety net for those residents who cannot resist the intake of drugs and are now dependent on drugs.
• Supply reduction: controlling the distribution of access to drugs and precursor materials.
• Healing continuum: a range of interventions and supports that enable individuals and families to deal with addiction problems.
• Sustaining groups: prevention programmes promote the protective factors that reduce the potential for substance abuse and other closely linked behaviours, such as truancy and delinquency.
• Capacity building: efforts the city and its partners will put in place to empower, educate and skill those affected by drug addiction.
• Advocacy: achieving social justice and people empowerment calls for service to persons in need and the betterment of social conditions.
Residents in the City affected by drug and substance abuse may visit the City’s social workers available at all customer care centres in Ekurhuleni for assistance.
Alternatively, the community may contact the LDAC coordinator on 011 999 2797, 011 999 2655 or email Nosipho.Mackay@ekurhuleni.gov.za
