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Eastern Cape substance abuse soars

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[Listen to a soundbite by Marlene Ewers MPL]

The Eastern Cape is facing a dire substance abuse crisis with addiction rates, especially among the youth, soaring, and there is a severe shortage of rehabilitation treatment centres to meet the growing demand.

There is only one state-run substance abuse inpatient rehabilitation centre in the province, and it only provides services to those under the age of 18 and can only admit 38 youth at a time.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is urgently calling on the Department of Social Development to conduct a full investigation into the extent of substance abuse across each district in the province and to roll out additional rehabilitation centres in districts worst affected.

The impact of substance abuse on families is profound and heartbreaking. As the cost-of-living crisis worsens, more individuals are turning to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism, exacerbating the problem. In a province with the highest unemployment levels in the country, the prospect of a life without work looms large and many disillusioned youths seek an escape through substance abuse.

However, the prevalence of substance abuse among learners is the most concerning. Substance abuse at a young age contributes to violent behaviour, disrupting the learning environment and posing a threat to both teachers and students. This results in academic difficulties, increased absenteeism, and a higher dropout rate.

Substance abuse among learners not only undermines their academic performance but also has far-reaching consequences for their physical and mental health. Chronic drug use can lead to developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Moreover, the presence of drugs in schools often correlates with an increase in criminal activities, including theft, vandalism, and even gang involvement. This creates an unsafe and unstable environment that hinders the educational experience for all students.

The lack of adequate rehabilitation facilities in the province leaves many families helpless and unable to access the care their loved ones desperately need. The emotional and financial toll on these families is immense, underscoring the urgent need for more support services.

I will write to Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta to request that her department conduct a thorough assessment of the prevalence of substance abuse in each district and use this information to guide the establishment of additional rehabilitation centres across the province.

I will also ask that her department, increase substance abuse prevention programmes, specifically focusing on addressing substance abuse among learners in schools.

Awareness programs targeting high-risk areas within communities and schools are crucial in preventing drug use and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Addressing the substance abuse crisis in the Eastern Cape requires a collective effort from all sectors of society. We must come together to provide the necessary resources, support, and infrastructure to combat addiction and rebuild the lives of those affected.

Regards

Marlene Ewers MPL
DA Shadow MEC for Social Development

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