DSD urges residents to refrain from Drugs and alcohol

GA MOKGOTHO

The Limpopo Department of Social Development (DSD) said it is concerned about alcohol abuse in the province, especially amongst young people.
MEC Florence Radzilani addressed the Limpopo Province’s observation of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Penge (Ga-Mokgotho) on June 26.
The remote rural area has been identified as one with a high occurrence of substance abuse.
Radzilani was joined by the acting executive mayor of Sekhukhune District, Cllr Samson Nkosi; the Fetakgomo Tubatse acting mayor, Cllr Elsie Mokome; other councillors; tribal leaders (Kgoshigadi Mokgotho); the Central Drug Authority; the Tubatse SAPS station commander, Colonel Mahlathini Ngele; the Beer Association of South Africa; the Provincial Substance Abuse Forum; and anti-substance abuse ambassadors from the Department of Correctional Services.
All voices spoke as one in support of the fight against substance abuse and the consequences thereof, such as crime, broken families and the decay of the morality of society.
Radzilani echoed that substance abuse is not a Department of Social Development issue alone, and, therefore, all relevant stakeholders, including councillors, traditional leadership and communities should be involved to fight the scourge of substance abuse.
“Individuals can contribute to the commemoration of this day by spreading awareness, supporting local prevention and rehabilitation programmes, participating in community events, and advocating for policies that address drug abuse and trafficking,” said the Radzilani.
According to recent data from the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use, alcohol and cannabis remain the most commonly used substances across provinces.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has also flagged South Africa as a key regional hub for illicit drug trafficking.