City of Joburg residents take a stand against drugs  

23 October 2017

 

The streets of Rosettenville and Turffontein came alive on Friday as learners in school uniform marched to rhythmic tunes from the JMPD Brass Band alongside SAPS officers and drum majorettes, hoisting colourful banners and placards denouncing drug addiction. 

 

They chanted in unison against the scourge of drugs as they walked along an open-top bus.

Health promoters from the City’s Health Department were oversubscribed as they did screening tests for blood pressure and blood sugar.

Dimpho Makete and Lesedi Moholo from Diefakkel Hoer Skool said: “Anti-drug campaign march should be done every year, more schools should participate. Drugs are bad they affect life and studies. Kids who are using drugs they should speak to their teachers and parents so that they can get help. Say no to drugs.”

Carlos Rodriguez from Spar supermarket at Rosettenville said: “We have partnered with City of Johannesburg and SAPS. We want to give back to the community. It’s our social responsibility. We’re contributing to ensure that Rosettenville becomes a drug-free community. Also, kids must feel free and safe to play. Lives are ruined because of drugs.”

Shallin Bidassey-Manilal, a City of Joburg Environmental Health Practitioner, said: “We chose the area because it is infested with drugs and high levels of prostitution. Young children are exposed or caught up in drugs.”

Warrant Officer Cornelius from SAPS said: “There is so much out there than drugs, there is so much for a greater future than drugs, there is so much more to do to achieve than the life of substance abuse. The aim of the campaign is to make the community aware, kids and businesses that drugs are not the answer there are more things out there.

“If we work together we can make a difference. People from different sphere, different communities, different schools, businesses and government departments, let’s stand together even if it is one day year.”