By OBAKENG MAJE
The Department of Social Development said it is concerned about alcohol as the first drug of choice by young people. Recently, South Africa joined the world to commemorate World Drug Day.
The theme for World Drug Day 2024 is: “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention”.
The department spokesperson, Lumka Oliphant said drugs not only destroy lives, but also disrupt communities, fuel crime and weaken economies. Oliphant said according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), around 269 million people worldwide used drugs in 2018, and these numbers continue to rise.
“The World Drug Day highlights the global commitment needed to address drug abuse and illicit trafficking through education, support, and rehabilitation. The day underscores the necessity of international cooperation as drug trafficking is a trans-national challenge that requires a coordinated response from governments, organisations, and individuals.
“The theme teaches countries the importance of understanding that effective drug policies need to be grounded in science, research, compassion, and full respect for human rights. The day also emphasizes a thorough comprehension of the social, economic, and health consequences of drug use,” she said.
Oliphant further said the World Drug Day 2024 also emphasises the importance of ending stigma and strengthening prevention efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking. She added that can be achieved by uniting globally and prioritizing compassion and education and making significant strides toward a drug-free world.
“Individuals can contribute to the commemoration of this day by spreading awareness, supporting local prevention and rehabilitation programs, participating in community events, and advocating for policies that address drug abuse and trafficking.
“The 2024 Commemoration was preceded by a National Anti-Drug Awareness week, which commenced from 18-22 June 2024. During that week, it was critical for the department to lead various activities in all provinces to highlight the harmful use, abuse, misuse of alcohol and drugs,” said Oliphant.
She said they have initiated a forum led by the Liquor Board to regularly engage traders and the communities on pressing matters such as illegal shebeens that are mushrooming uncontrollably. Oliphant said the crime rate is associated with substance abuse such as the selling of drugs and other harmful substances outside some taverns.
“Young people cited boredom, peer pressure and easy access to drugs and alcohol as some of the major challenges present in their community. They asked parents to actively support initiatives that educate everyone about the risks associated with substance abuse, advocating for a proactive approach to community wellness.
“The department is concerned that alcohol remains the first drug of choice for young people and the policy of Prevention and treatment of Substance Use Disorders (SUD) will be finalised for tabling to cabinet for approval. The policy seeks to empower the country to deal with the abuse of alcohol, especially by children and replace effective policies with evidence-based policies,” said Oliphant.
She said the significance of World Drug Day 2024, lies in its ability to raise awareness about the severe consequences of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Meanwhile, the Social Work Policy Manager at the National Department of Social Development, Motshabi Nkoane, has raised a concern on the high level of alcohol abuse in South Africa, especially, amongst young people which includes binge drinking.
“Substance abuse is not a department issue alone and therefore, all relevant stakeholders, including, councillors, traditional leadership and communities, should be involved to fight the scourge of substance abuse as stipulated in the National Drug Master Plan, which is the overarching blueprint of the country’s response to substance abuse,” she said.
The Guardian 