​Brothers, Nkosinathi and Nkululeko from Kwa-Thema in Ekurhuleni, who are battling with addiction to the notorious street drug Nyaope, have pleaded with the Gauteng Department of Social Development to assist them to enrol for a rehabilitation programme.
Their plight came during the Anti-Substance Abuse Outreach Programme at Duduza Rank in Kwa-Thema, Ekurhuleni on Saturday, following a call by the Department to assist young people who are struggling with drugs and alcohol addiction to receive screening and intake services.

Speaking to Weekly Bulletin, elder brother Nkosinathi said he wants to turn things around, so that him and his brother can have a meaningful impact in their family and community that is free of drugs.

“We are happy that the Department promised to assist us and gave us a three-weeks waiting period. Though it feels too long, but what is important is to see us not roaming the streets this December.”

“If it was possible that we were taken today, on the spot, with a bus, we wouldn’t have hesitated,” said Nkosinathi, who urged the Department to invite all stakeholders during such initiatives for a swift response.

Social Worker, Nomzamo Mvuleni added that since the announcement of the Gauteng Anti-Substance Abuse Helpline, thousands of young people have been assisted with applications.

“We are trying to make things faster, but we still follow procedure for admission. We can not just take you to rehab without proper documentation and reports. So, rehabilitation centres must have your file, so that if anything can happen, they will know your medical history,” said Mvuleni.

She added that there are four (4) documents that are important when applying for rehabilitation, which is a Medical Form, Proof of Residence, Identity Document, and an Affidavit from the police station.

“From that, I will be able to do a report, compile an assessment, and be able to refer you to a rehabilitation centre of your choice,” said Mvuleni.

Parents and caregivers are urged to apply for rehabilitation for their children or adults addicted to drugs. The helpline can be accessed on 0800 228 827 or USSD *134*47472# and follow prompts.