On Friday, approximately 150 individuals from Mamelodi and Atteridgeville struggling with drug addiction took the first step towards their rehabilitation.
Gauteng MEC for social development Faith Mazibuko embarked on “Ke moja I am fine without Drugs” substance abuse awareness campaign with different stakeholders on September 13.
The campaign aims to raise the awareness of the dangers of substance abuse for community members and outline interventions offered by the Gauteng Department of Social Development.
Mazibuko said individuals took a step to demonstrate a strong desire to be rescued from the grip of drugs by participating in the government’s anti-substance abuse campaign.
She said the department remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the devastating impact of substance abuse within communities.
The awareness campaign was held at three identified hotspots in Tshwane: Saulsville Sports Ground, B2 Hostel, and Naledi Hostel in Mamelodi.
Mazibuko expressed her dedication to the cause, “I have secured space at the Dr Fabian and Florence Ribeiro Drug Treatment Centre in Cullinan. Our intention is to assist those who wish to quit drugs by providing them with treatment and life skills programmes. As we approach the festive season, I want to reassure parents that we will do our utmost to help their children lead healthy lives.”
The MEC further announced that the rehabilitation centre will begin accepting new patients on September 17.
During the event, she also engaged with street vendors and taxi drivers at Denneboom Taxi Rank, fostering community support in tackling the substance abuse crisis.
Among those eager for a fresh start was 26-year-old Dumisa Ndlovu of Mamelodi, who arrived with his luggage, prepared to enter the rehabilitation programme.
He said he has been waiting for this opportunity.
“I have tried many times to quit drugs on my own but have failed and this is my chance to change my life,” said Ndlovu.
Recovering substance user, Fuzi Mahlangu, a 40-year-old former paramedic, shared his personal journey of overcoming addiction.
“It is possible to quit drugs,” he said.
“I lost my job as a paramedic due to drugs. It all began with alcohol abuse, which led to being homeless. My recovery was not easy, but with the support of my family, I managed to get my life back on track.”
The Gauteng government, through initiatives like the Ke Moja programme and ongoing collaboration with rehabilitation centres, remains committed to providing sustainable solutions to curb substance abuse, empowering individuals, and restoring hope to affected communities.
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