MIDDELBURG – The Department of Social Development, in partnership with key stakeholders including social workers, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), health practitioners, and representatives from the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, hosted the Nkangala In-Patient Treatment Centre Roadshow at Iraq Taxi Rank on Monday, November 25, 2024.
The initiative aims to assist individuals struggling with substance abuse by raising awareness, offering support, and facilitating access to rehabilitation services.
Isabel Makushe, the programme manager for prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and substance abuse at the Department of Social Development, explained the purpose of the roadshow. “We want to ensure that those already affected by substance abuse receive the help they need. Our focus is on raising awareness, prevention, and providing access to rehabilitation,” she said.
Makushe also detailed the admission process for the Nkangala In-Patient Treatment Centre, explaining that prospective patients must first undergo an assessment at their nearest social work offices. Once assessed, patients are referred for detoxification before being admitted to the centre.
Vuyiswa Nkosi, a counsellor from the Department of Health, highlighted the collaboration between social workers and mental health teams to address the social and psychological aspects of substance abuse. “We provide counselling for individuals dealing with mental health challenges, and we hold planning sessions to support their recovery further,” she said.
Nkosi pointed out several challenges, including a shortage of treatment facilities, staff, and medication, which hinder efforts to combat substance abuse.
Marcus Masemola, chairperson of the Mpumalanga Anti-Substance Abuse Forum, echoed these concerns, stating, “The demand for treatment far exceeds the resources available.”
Currently, the province has only two treatment centres, located in Swartfontein, Hazyview (Ehlanzeni District), and Delmas (Nkangala District). Both centres can accommodate up to 100 patients each.
Masemola called for stronger collaboration between communities, NGOs, and faith-based organisations to address the issue effectively.
During the roadshow, three individuals battling addiction voluntarily agreed to seek help at the Nkangala In-Patient Treatment Centre.
One of them, Mike Mahlangu from Mhluzi, Extension 8, shared his story. “Drugs have only brought me pain and suffering,” he said, adding that his addiction had led to criminal behaviour, including theft, which alienated him from his community.
Mahlangu encouraged others struggling with addiction to seek help. “Drugs don’t add value to our lives. Instead, they drain our resources and destroy our relationships,” he said.
The roadshow highlighted the urgent need for additional resources, stronger collaboration, and increased community involvement to effectively address substance abuse in the region.
