Social Development launch Festive Season Campaign Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Maletswai

Story: Relebohile Mxhosana | Photo: Sinazo Bonongo

Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, led the launch of the Festive Season Campaign Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at Hilton Hall in Maletswai. In their contribution towards the build-up towards 16 days of activism as well as the fight against the scourge in crime, substance abuse as well as gender based violence during this period, the Department of Social Development along with the South African Police Service (SAPS) , Department of community Safety, the Religious fraternity as well as other stakeholders, is rolling out a comprehensive awareness campaign to participate in the wellbeing of the broader society.

Mayor Cllr Vania Davids warmly welcomed all attendees, expressing heartfelt concern about how substance abuse continues to destroy the youth. She emphasised the urgent need to protect women and children and reiterated the call for communities to stand firm in the fight against gender-based violence inviting men to take an active stance in this matter. MEC Fanta highlighted the importance of sustained awareness, noting that these campaigns should not be limited to community halls but extended to schools, churches and all social spaces to ensure lasting impact. She stressed that such initiatives are vital in keeping communities safe from crime and abuse. 

As part of the day’s programme, Honourable MEC Fanta also visited a local old age home, Huis Van Der Horst,where she handed over gifts of appreciation to the elderly. This gesture honoured their lifelong contributions and echoed the campaign’s vision: “A caring society for the protection and development of the poor and vulnerable towards a sustainable society.”