Lesufi engages with drug addicts in Cullinan as Gauteng intensifies fight against substance abuse

27 October 2026

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi today interacted with people struggling with drug addiction in Cullinan as the Gauteng Provincial Government intensified its efforts to connect individuals battling substance abuse with treatment, rehabilitation and support services.

The engagement formed part of the provincial government’s “Tswa Daar – Ke Moja, I Am Fine Without Drugs” campaign, which is marking its first anniversary and entering its third phase, with a renewed focus on getting people into treatment and supporting their long-term recovery.

The provincial government is calling on residents struggling with substance addiction, as well as families seeking assistance for their loved ones, to come forward and register for help through a registration drive taking place at 15 sites across Gauteng’s five regions.

The initiative aims to ensure that people affected by substance abuse are not left to fight addiction alone, but are supported in accessing appropriate care and rebuilding their lives.

Through his interaction with people affected by addiction in Cullinan, Premier Lesufi underscored the importance of engaging directly with communities and encouraging those struggling with substance abuse to seek help without fear of judgement or discrimination.

The registration drive provides an entry point into the treatment and recovery process. Once registered, individuals can undergo screening, medical assessments and psychosocial evaluations to determine the most appropriate form of care for their circumstances.

Depending on individual needs, this may include inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient treatment or community-based support services.

As the campaign moves into its third phase, the Gauteng Provincial Government is shifting its emphasis beyond raising awareness to improving treatment readiness, encouraging the completion of rehabilitation programmes and strengthening support for sustained recovery.

The provincial government believes that overcoming addiction requires a coordinated response involving government, families, communities, schools, faith-based organisations and civil society.

Premier Lesufi has called on residents to take advantage of the registration drive and to support family members and friends who may need assistance.

“The Gauteng Provincial Government calls on residents to participate in the registration drive on 27 October 2026. Come forward for yourself or support a loved one to seek help. Register on the campaign database and begin the journey towards recovery,” said Lesufi.

Beyond treatment, the campaign places particular emphasis on preventing substance abuse among learners, students and young adults. Parents, caregivers and educators are encouraged to have open conversations with young people about the dangers of substance use, identify early warning signs and seek professional assistance before addiction escalates into a crisis.

The provincial government also recognises the importance of providing young people with positive alternatives, including participation in sport, arts and culture, as well as skills development opportunities that promote belonging, personal growth and improved future prospects.

Schools, faith-based organisations, community organisations and youth leaders are being encouraged to reinforce prevention messages and help build communities that support healthy lifestyles.

The campaign further highlights the need for continued support after treatment, including family involvement, aftercare and reintegration into society. Reducing the stigma associated with addiction is considered essential to encouraging more people to seek help early and remain committed to their recovery.

Residents are urged to recognise substance addiction as a challenge that requires appropriate support and intervention, rather than condemnation. Families are also encouraged to stand alongside loved ones throughout the treatment and recovery process.

Registration sites across Gauteng

The registration drive is taking place at the following sites across the province:

Johannesburg

•⁠ ⁠Soweto: Diepkloof Hall

•⁠ ⁠Alexandra: Alexandra Multipurpose Hall

•⁠ ⁠Ivory Park: Ivory Park Multipurpose Centre

•⁠ ⁠Eldorado Park: Eldorado Park Multipurpose Hall

Tshwane

•⁠ ⁠Atteridgeville: Sithuthukisa Bonke

•⁠ ⁠Eesterus: Eesterus Civic Centre

•⁠ ⁠Winterveld: Winterveld Community Hall

•⁠ ⁠Cullinan: Dr F & F

Ekurhuleni

•⁠ ⁠Tembisa: Motsho Park

•⁠ ⁠Vosloorus: Vosloorus Civic Centre

•⁠ ⁠Geluksdal: Geluksdal Community Hall

•⁠ ⁠Germiston: Makausi, near Primrose Bus Depot

West Rand

•⁠ ⁠Toekomsrus: Westview Clinic

•⁠ ⁠Mogale City: Munsieville Integrated Social Facility

Sedibeng

•⁠ ⁠Evaton: Mafatsane

•⁠ ⁠Sebokeng: Sol Tsotetsi Sports Centre

The Gauteng Provincial Government is encouraging individuals battling substance addiction and families concerned about loved ones to use the registration drive as an opportunity to access assistance and begin the process of recovery.

As the Tswa Daar – Ke Moja, I Am Fine Without Drugs campaign enters its next phase, the provincial government is reaffirming its commitment to tackling substance abuse through prevention, access to treatment and sustained community support.

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