Oudtshoorn, 11 October 2016 – The Oudtshoorn Municipality in collaboration with stakeholders interested in fighting substance abuse established a Local Drug Action Committee that will be championed by the Executive Mayor, Cllr. Noluthando Mwati who has been vested to lead the social responsibility cluster of the Municipality by Council leadership.
The establishment of the Local Drug Action Committee was held on 29 September 2016 at the Municipal New Council building. The event was attended by various stakeholders ranging from Government department such as Correctional Services and Department of Social Development to community based organizations and the clergy.
In her address, Cllr Mwati admitted that the Drug problem is a real issue that it affects the entire community on a daily basis. She said: “In order for us to win the battle against this evil of drug abuse, we need to be committed in this new journey we are embarking on.” Mwati congratulated the new committee led by Mr. Ronnie Prins who was elected as Chairperson. Other roles in the committee will be allocated at a later stage.
Ensuring that effect is given to the National Drug Master Plan in the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipal district; Compile action plans to combat substance abuse in the relevant municipality in cooperation with provincial government;
The Local Drug Action Committee would be responsible for the following:
- To ensure that action plans are in line with the priorities and the objectives of the INTEGRATED Final Draft Mini Drug Master Plan and that is in line with strategies of government departments;
- To implement its action plans;
- Annually provide a report to the relevant Provincial Substance Abuse Forum concerning actions, progress, problems and other related events in its area and
- Provide such information as from time to time, may be required by the Central Drug Authority.
A representative from the Department of Social Development’s Substance Abuse Programme, Ms. Chantelle Pepper echoed the importance of the establishment of the committee: “Thank you for taking the substance abuse problem seriously, because it is indeed a serious issue.” Pepper offered the Department’s assistance in the fights against drug abuse. “We can assist you, if you tell us what the needs are – we are here to support you as you are part of a bigger picture.”