Social awareness campaign tackles drug abuse, crime
A social awareness campaign highlighting violence against women and children, drug abuse and crime was recently held at Koen Barnard Park in Witfield.
The campaign was hosted by the Sinethemba/Have Hope community-based NGO in partnership with the Aurum Institute under the Dreams project.
Young and old, mostly from the Angelo informal settlement, attended the day.
The Department of Health, the Department of Social Development, the Aurum Institute, US President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR), Boksburg North SAPS, EMPD and the Ekurhuleni metro partnered to drive the campaign.
Mthokosizi Nhlapo, a community engagement officer from the Aurum Institute said: “We hosted the day to encourage the youth to finish school and to play a positive role in society.
“We want to motivate young women not to solely rely on men but to be independent. And we want to motivate men to respect women and protect them.”
Activities of the day included singing, dancing and motivational speaking.
Gloria Mdluli from Sinethemba said it is vital to address the social challenges facing young people.
“We want to bring about change in or community, so it is important to educate young people on the ramifications of teenage pregnancy and the dangers of drugs abuse.
“Parents should join hands with their children to ensure a better tomorrow for all,” Mdluli said.
Agnes Thekiso, from the Boksburg North clinic, encouraged young people to make use of the services at the clinic. Ward 33 councillor Ashley Hoods praised the campaign for its relevance.
