Ramotshere Moiloa held a successful, peaceful march against drug abuse

Media Statement

19 December 2023

Ramotshere Moiloa held a successful, peaceful march against drug abuse

Drug abuse remains a pressing concern affecting individuals and communities worldwide. Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality is deeply committed to addressing this critical issue and spreading awareness about its adverse effects on society. Drug abuse continues to be a significant public health challenge, impacting individuals of all ages, genders, and socio-economic backgrounds. The misuse of substances not only poses a threat to physical and mental health but also strains relationships, destabilizes communities, and hampers societal progress.

In its effort to raise awareness and fight the drug abuse in Ramotshere Moiloa jurisdiction; the local municipality together with government departments, NGOs and members of the community hosted a peaceful march against drug abuse in Zeerust town. This recent significant initiative which gained momentum from the planning phase; aimed at addressing the pervasive problem of substance abuse within the community.

The march is also one of the commitments taken during the stakeholders meeting following the attacks between the local residents and Congolese foreign nationals to address the recent community uprising, deal with drug abuse, gender-based violence and launch operation Clean up. The stakeholders who shared various information pamphlets on crime, abuse health and safety included the South African Police Service, Home Affairs, Department of Justice, Department of Social Development, Health Inspectors, Zeerust Business Forum, NGOs, Community Policing Forum, Ward committee members, community and Councillors.

In her motivational talk, Mayor Dina Pitso encouraged the stakeholders to remember that the main objective of the march was to raise awareness, advocate for change, and providing empowerment and support, align with the municipality's efforts to combat drug abuse and create a safer, healthier community.” We strive to educate individuals, families, and communities about the dangers of drug abuse through various awareness programs, workshops, and informational resources. Raising awareness is a crucial step in preventing substance misuse and its consequences. We must march with confidence and be optimistic that our action today will not go unnoticed. As we raise our placards and voices, we are the voices of the voiceless and bringing hope to the hopeless. I always say that we can build better communities together and we are moving towards a positive direction”, said the mayor.

The local ward councillor Afrika Thale welcomed the initiative and thanked the all the stakeholders for coming in large numbers. “It's imperative for society as a whole to come together to tackle this issue effectively. By raising awareness, providing support, advocating for change, and fostering community engagement, we can work towards a future free from the devastating impact of drug abuse. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug abuse, please reach out for help. Together, we can make a difference and build healthier, safer communities,”, he said.

The municipality is pleading with the individuals, families, and communities to work together to combat drug abuse and create a safer, healthier, and more resilient community especially during this festive season.

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Issued by

Communication Unit

Dirontsho Sebego

Communications 018 642 1081 ext 286 / 0833208627

dmsebego@gmail.com