(Launch of the Northern Cape Provincial Substance Abuse Prevention Strategy)
The theme for this year’s International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is “Global Actions for Healthy Communities without Drugs”, speaks to the need for a multi-disciplinary approach to substance abuse eradication in order to have healthy communities.

These were the words of acting Premier during the official launch of the Northern Cape Provincial Substance Abuse Prevention Strategy. The Strategy is an attempt to enhance efforts to combat substance abuse so as to build safer and healthier communities. She indicated that government believes that in order to build a caring society there needs to be strong families and vibrant communities. In essence it is important that we continue to forge effective partnerships with all sectors of society in mobilizing communities behind the vision of a drug free society and put education and awareness programmes at the centre of their strategies.

The launch of the Strategy is a confirmation of the dedication of the leadership collective and the people of the Northern Cape to stem the tide against the scourge of substance abuse in the province. Young people continue to grow up in environments where drugs are commonplace and because of its corrosive effects it (substance abuse) weakens whole generations of people. Substance abuse is a problem that is prevalent in the Northern Cape and is a leading cause of crime and contributes to poverty, dysfunctional families and communities, the burden of disease, injury and premature death. The impact of substance abuse is even felt in service delivery, because it has the potential to undermine the gains which our new dispensation has made possible.

In reflecting on the impact of substance abuse through statistics, the acting Premier highlighted that these figures has a negative influence on the Northern Cape Province due to the high prevalence levels. She indicated that in some instances the provincial statistics are even higher than the national statistics. The Strategy will serve as a mechanism to drastically reduce the impact and effects of substance abuse in the province. Emphases will be placed on ensuring effective law enforcement against those involved in drug trafficking of illegal drugs. Through the revelation of the statistics, young people continue to be the central point of focus for substance and drug abuse.

The acting Premier called for the building of a consensus of zero drug tolerance. She indicated that the aim of a drug- free Northern Cape can only be attained with the involvement of the whole community.

A substance abuse helpline has been established and those who are faced with substance abuse related problems are encouraged to call the line on 0800121314 or sms at 32312.

Issued by: Office of the Premier
Northern Cape Province

Contact: Monwabisi Nkompela at 071 109 2776