The African Union (AU) in collaboration with the South African Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, the UNODC, Central Drug Authority (CDA) held a two-day workshop for the Validation of the National Action Plan for South Africa Traditional Leadership in Drug Demand Reduction. Held in Johannesburg, 14-15 June, the theme was: Solidarity in addressing drug addiction and related mental health disorders. 

WFAD Secretary-General was invited to provide a goodwill message highlighting the importance of comprehensive systems of care, partnerships between traditional leaders, authorities and civil society, and the meaningful role that Traditional leaders can play in drug demand reduction. 

Prevention is cost effective and accessible – and with the tools provided in International Standards on Prevention, we can contextualise and ensure that we are doing good, evidence based, gender and culturally sensitive prevention efforts. Prevention is particularly necessary in rural areas, where community is key and the community holds the power to ensure strong protective factors for their children and youth. We further need to strengthen access to treatment and recovery-oriented systems of care. The latter, incorporated recovery ready workplaces, villages, and recovery cities alike.

No matter the type of drug demand reduction, or service provided, community involvement and ownership is key to ensure the sustainability and longevity of services, but also to support people on their recovery journeys. This is where community leaders, traditional leaders play a role of utmost importance. You are not only the custodians of culture, history, and customs – but leaders to whom your communities and villages look up to, look to for guidance and respect. With your influence, working towards drug-free and recovery ready communities I am sure the change we are wanting to see will take form.

Traditional councils play a meaningful role in the reduction of demand of drugs – And to strengthen and ensure sustainable prevention interventions. It was a true pleasure to read the Draft plan for the catalytic drug demand reduction which you have developed in partnership, as it provides a strong tool and framework for the work to lower drug demand.

I applaud you for your partnerships (…) With this showcase of best practice, the work that you are doing can certainly pave way for similar partnerships and coalitions between state and traditional actors in countries in Africa and beyond!