Pretoria - The Department of Social Development says it has spent the past few weeks engaging the community of Katlehong Township in Ekurhuleni on the socio-economic challenges in the area and has found that the abuse of alcohol and drugs is rife in that community.
“This abuse of alcohol and substances is directly linked to high levels of crime, teenage pregnancy, unemployment, and school drop-outs amongst the youth,” the department said.
“With the festive season drawing nearer, the message of anti-substance abuse becomes more critical because the country sees a sharp rise in alcohol and drug use and its tragic consequences during this time.”
The department said Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini will this week meet with the community of Katlehong to raise awareness on the effects of drug use. She is also expected to discuss preventative measures to stop young people taking drugs, as well as interventions on how those who are caught in the cycle of abuse can be assisted to get off drugs. –SAnews.gov.za
