The MMC for Health and Social Development in the City of Johannesburg, Eunice Mgcina, officially launched an awareness campaign on alcoholism in Ivory Park, north of Joburg, on Friday, 17 September 2021.
Accompanied by City officials, Ward councillor Spiwe Makamo, NGOs, and faith-based organisations, MMC Mgcina said she was encouraged to see Ward 79 residents, who came in numbers to listen for themselves as the City engaged communities on addictions, which are slowly destroying the future of the country.
“We are bringing this campaign to Ivory Park against the backdrop of the commemoration of World Foetal Alcoholic Day, which was observed just last week on 9 September.
“We are also going to be taking this campaign to all our communities throughout the city in all regions to create awareness and to educate residents about the dangers of alcoholism, narcotics and other substances with a view to saving lives,” said Mgcina
She urged residents to use of the City’s 24-hour Substance Abuse and Gender-Based Violence Crisis Line for help on 0800 223 217.
Ouma Phakwago-Mashala, a representative from Gauteng Liquor Board, said they have implemented strict regulations for issuing of liquor licences to curb the abuse of alcohol in the communities.
“We want to warn those who sell alcohol to under-age kids and visible pregnant women that when we find them and they will face the full might of the law. We will revoke their licences and blacklist them.”
