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The Gauteng government will open 15 substance-abuse registration sites across the province on Tuesday as part of efforts to connect people struggling with addiction to treatment and recovery services.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi and members of the provincial executive council will lead the registration drive on October 27, marking the first anniversary of the government’s “Tswa Daar – Ke Moja, I am fine without drugs” campaign.
The initiative is part of the campaign’s third phase, which aims to help people access appropriate care while strengthening efforts to prevent substance use, particularly among young people.
Residents who need help with substance addiction, or who are concerned about a loved one, are encouraged to use the registration drive as an entry point to appropriate treatment and support.
Elijah Mhlanga, spokesperson for the Gauteng government, said the registration process would include screening, medical assessments and psychosocial assessments to determine the most appropriate form of care for each individual.
Depending on their needs, people may be referred for inpatient treatment, outpatient services or community-based support.
Beyond treatment, the campaign aims to prevent substance use before it starts, with a particular focus on pupils, students and young adults.
Parents, caregivers and educators are encouraged to have open conversations with young people about substance use, identify early warning signs and seek assistance before problems escalate.
He also highlighted the importance of providing young people with opportunities to participate in sport, arts and culture, as well as skills-development initiatives that can strengthen their sense of belonging and improve their future prospects.
Schools, faith-based organisations, community groups and youth leaders are expected to play a role in spreading prevention messages and encouraging residents to seek help.
Mhlanga highlighted that recovery required continued support beyond treatment, including aftercare, family involvement and reintegration into communities.
Families and communities were urged to help reduce the stigma associated with substance addiction and support people throughout their recovery.
As the campaign enters its third phase, the focus will extend beyond reaching people who need assistance to improving treatment readiness, treatment completion and sustained recovery.
The registration drive will take place at the following sites across Gauteng’s five regions:
Johannesburg
Soweto: Diepkloof Hall
Alexandra: Alexandra Multipurpose Hall
Ivory Park: Ivory Park Multipurpose Centre
Eldorado Park: Eldorado Park Multipurpose Hall
Tshwane
Atteridgeville: Sithuthukisa Bonke
Eersterus: Eersterus Civic Centre
Winterveld: Winterveld Community Hall
Cullinan: Dr F & F
Ekurhuleni
Thembisa: Motsho Park
Vosloorus: Vosloorus Civic Centre
Geluksdal: Geluksdal Community Hall
Germiston: Makausi, near Primrose Bus Depot
West Rand
Toekomsrus: Westview Clinic
Mogale City: Munsieville Integrated Social Facility
Sedibeng
Evaton: Mafatsane
Sebokeng: Sol Tsotetsi Sports Centre
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