The Department of Social Development (DSD) will host the provincial commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 27 June 2025 at Ga-Mokgotho Community Hall, Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality.
This year’s global theme, “The evidence is clear – Invest in prevention,” is a call for urgent and coordinated action to prevent substance abuse, particularly among South Africa’s youth. The campaign, which runs under the slogan “Break the cycle” with the hashtag #StopOrganisedCrime, highlights the devastating links between drug abuse, organised crime, poverty and family breakdown.
“Substance abuse is one of the most pressing public health and social development issues facing our communities today. It affects individuals, families and our country’s future. This day serves not only to raise awareness but to galvanise collective action,” said Limpopo MEC for Social Development, Ms Florence Radzilani.
Addiction takes many forms
Substance abuse is no longer confined to illegal drugs. Today, South Africa faces a broad and growing addiction crisis:
- Illicit drugs: Cannabis, methamphetamine (tik), nyaope, cocaine and mandrax remain the most commonly abused illegal substances.
- Prescription medication: According to research from the University of the Witwatersrand, the abuse of stimulants, sedatives and opiates is increasing, particularly among students and working adults.
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol use continues to be a leading cause of domestic violence, road deaths and foetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
- Behavioural addictions: Gambling and pornography addiction are on the rise, affecting mental health, financial stability and family relationships.
Despite its many faces, addiction shares common roots – poverty, mental health challenges, trauma, and lack of support – and common consequences, including increased crime and violence; health issues like heart disease, depression and infectious disease; poor academic performance and school dropout; and unemployment and family breakdown.
“Addiction is not a moral failure. It is a chronic, treatable condition. We need to tackle it with compassion, evidence-based interventions and strong community support,” said MEC Radzilani.
Help is available
DSD, together with NGOs like SANCA (South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence) and SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group), offers a range of services for individuals and families:
- Inpatient and outpatient treatment at Seshego Treatment Centre, Hlabirwa Rehabilitation Clinic, and others
- Community-based prevention and reintegration programmes
- SADAG’s Ke Moja
- WhatsApp Chat Line (087 163 2025), which offers free counselling and referral
- 24-hour substance abuse helpline: 0800 12 13 14
- SMS support: 32312
- SANCA WhatsApp: 076 535 1701
Treatment may include detox, medical support, therapy, social reintegration and family counselling. No one is alone – help is just a call or message away.
Five warning signs of addiction
- Sudden changes in mood, friends or interests
- A decline in work or school performance
- Secretive or manipulative behaviour (e.g., stealing prescriptions, forging documents)
- Physical symptoms such as red eyes, weight change or poor hygiene
- Using substances to manage stress, sleep or emotional distress
Driving national awareness
To amplify the message beyond provincial borders, the DSD has partnered with the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) to sponsor media coverage and support nationwide communication efforts. BASA is a key player in promoting responsible drinking and addressing the social impact of alcohol abuse. Through this collaboration, the message of prevention will reach households, schools and workplaces across South Africa.
BASA continues to raise awareness around Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and support community outreach around underage drinking, road safety, and the fight against illicit alcohol trade.
“We at BASA believe that beer can be a product of moderation—not devastation. Through education and co-regulation, we support healthier choices and responsible communities,” said Charlene Louw, CEO of BASA.
“Our partnership with BASA helps expand the reach of vital information to a broader audience and is the perfect example of how we can collaborate to address critical issues that affect South African communities. We value their support and commitment to responsible community engagement,” said the minister.
What to expect on 27 June
- Commemorative event at Ga-Mokgotho Community Hall, featuring community leaders, youth activists, health professionals, and guest speakers.
- Live media coverage, sponsored by BASA, to maximise national outreach.
- Public awareness activities including exhibitions, performances, and information booths about treatment centres and support services.
- Educational drives on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, early intervention tips, and mental health support.
- Keynote speakers and panel discussions with experts, social workers and community leaders.
- Awareness exhibitions featuring local NGOs, service providers and youth groups.
- Performances and testimonies from individuals in recovery.
- Information hubs where attendees can access resources and referrals.
Join the movement – be part of the change
The Department of Social Development invites all citizens, educators, caregivers, community leaders, private sector and media partners to attend and participate. This is more than a day on the calendar – it’s a national stand against addiction, abuse, and organised crime.
Let’s raise awareness. Let’s invest in prevention. Let’s #BreakTheCycle.
Together, we can stop organised crime and build stronger, healthier communities.
INFO SUPPLIED.
