In a bid to curb the ever-increasing cases of drug abuse in and around Chatsworth, local non-governmental and non-profit organisations united to commemorate International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The Chatsworth Anti-Drug Forum and South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Durban jointly hosted the awareness march from the Chatsworth Department of Social Development offices to the Chatsworth Centre, where they embarked on an information sharing session.

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Along the route, members of the various organisations chanted and marched to the tune of empowerment as they made their way through the Chatsworth CBD, passing hundreds, if not thousands, of people in the process.

Sonwabile Sithole of SANCA said, “As an organisation based in Chatsworth, we are actively involved in the prevention, education, early intervention and treatment of substance abuse issues. Through collaboration with various stakeholders, including government departments, schools, law enforcement, community organisations and faith-based organisations, we promote a holistic approach to substance abuse prevention and treatment.”

The purpose of the event was to raise awareness within the community about the dangers of substance abuse and, most importantly, to reassure residents that help is available, Sithole noted.

“The march and information session aimed to encourage individuals and families affected by substance abuse to seek support and to make the community aware of the services and resources accessible to them,” said Sithole.

As the group made their way to the Chatsworth Centre, they were joined by the Metro Police, and Michael John, who entertained the crowd amid informative talks from those versed in the dangers of drug abuse and addiction.

The Chatsworth Anti-Drug Forum and SANCA Durban extend their sincere appreciation to all the stakeholders who partnered with them to make this initiative a success.

They thanked FAMSA, Lifeline, Childline, the Multinational Lung Cancer Control Program, Golden Generation Youth Club, Khayelisha Women Development Centre, Aryan Benevolent Home (ABH) VJ Kara Family Centre, SA Outreach, the Department of Social Development, Child Welfare Chatsworth, Metro Police, SAPS, eThekwini Municipality (Safer Cities and Community Participation Units), Adam’s Mission Community SOS Centre, the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, African Bank, Royal Sky Events, and the Chatsworth Centre for their invaluable support and commitment to building a healthier, safer and drug-free community.

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“Through partnerships such as these, we are able to extend our reach and remind the community that help, hope and support are always available. By working together, we hope to strengthen community awareness, reduce stigma and ensure that those in need know where to find assistance,” concluded Sithole.