The Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) continues to lead the fight against substance abuse in the province.
On 1 September training was given to 100 recovering drug addicts at the Witpoort Treatment Centre in Brakpan, Ekurhuleni.
The training emphasised the importance of aftercare in the treatment process and equips recovering addicts with skills to lead a drug-free lifestyle.
In rolling out the Gauteng City Region’s Anti-Substance Abuse Social Movement, the GDSD has partnered with various non-government organisations such as the Soul City Institute to assist with the administration of the movement.
Speaking at the training workshop, the GDSD Director for Substance Abuse, Social Crime Prevention and Victim Empowerment Programme, Tebello Mkhonto said the department planned the training workshop to engage everyone who is recovering from drug addiction. “The recovery process does not end when an individual completes the rehabilitation programme, but the continuous support after the completion of the programme is key to a healthy recovery from addiction.
“Treatment is just the beginning of a lifelong process of growth and recovery to those who have been affected by drug addiction and alcoholism.
“The aftercare programme is offered following in-patient substance abuse rehabilitation for continued support as they ease back into society. The initial period, following rehabilitation, offers the greatest potential for relapse.” According to Mkhonto, as patients leave a safe, supervised environment and return to their familiar environment – where they used to drink or use drugs – can pose a great challenge and risk to their sobriety.
Gauteng Premier, David Makhura launched the Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa Centre of Excellence on 28 May in Tshwane. Through this programme, young people from disadvantaged communities and those who completed their drug rehabilitation programme are trained in building, tiling, plumbing and electricity. The Centre of Excellence is in response to government’s implementation of youth economic development initiatives.
