Infographic: Substance abuse in South Africa

Last week, the Central Drug Authority (CDA) briefed the Portfolio Committee on the state of substance abuse in the country. The Committee received information that showed a concerning increasing in the abuse of drugs and alcohol amongst citizens aged between 15 and 64 years. Members of the Committee were concerned about the major escalation in drug supply, with the Chairperson of the Committee calling the matter “an apolitical issue” and noting that “drug lords are becoming heroes. They are respected”. Amid the expression of concerns, MPs discussed the role of the CDA, and idea of “lifting the CDA to the level of agency” so there will be a centre of coordination for overseeing substance abuse. For more information on substance abuse in South Africa, see the infographics below: