Pretoria: The Deputy Minister of Social Development Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks has called for a more compassionate and innovative response to substance abuse, emphasizing that the government must take services directly to vulnerable communities rather than expecting individuals to seek help independently.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Deputy Minister addressed the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Tladi, Gauteng, emphasizing that substance abuse remains a systemic crisis affecting families, communities, and the country's social fabric. The event was part of South Africa's observance of the United Nations-designated day, held this year under the theme, 'Innovative Responses: Confronting Substance Abuse and its Related Challenges'.
Hendricks stated that substance abuse is a daily challenge confronting communities across the country. He highlighted the plight of homeless individuals and those living on the streets, noting that they often bear the greatest burden of addiction while facing multiple barriers to accessing treatment and support.
The deputy minister pointed out that many homeless people struggling with substance use disorders also contend with untreated physical and mental health conditions, unemployment, limited skills development opportunities, social isolation, and stigma. "Innovation means breaking down silos. It means taking services out of government buildings and bringing them directly to the pavements, shelters, informal settlements, and wherever they are needed most," he emphasized.
Hendricks stressed that every person, regardless of their housing status, deserves access to a comprehensive continuum of care, including prevention programs, treatment, rehabilitation, social reintegration, and long-term aftercare. The Department of Social Development remains committed to providing screening and assessment services, holistic medical and psychosocial treatment, as well as reintegration programs aimed at reuniting people recovering from substance use disorders with their families and communities.
He urged communities to support people in recovery and reject discrimination based on race, gender, or social status. The commemoration concluded with a renewed call for stronger partnerships to combat substance abuse and related social challenges, including homelessness, crime, violence, and victimization.