Panyaza Lesufi called on Soweto residents to unite against the rise of substance abuse during a powerful address at Jabulani Mall on Thursday. The engagement formed part of the province’s ongoing Tswa Daar Anti-Substance Abuse Campaign, which aims to build safer and healthier communities across Gauteng.
Speaking to a large and vocal crowd, the Premier urged families, youth, and community leaders to take an active stand against drugs and reclaim their neighborhoods. “We cannot build a future on broken communities,” Lesufi said. “We need every parent, every young person, every street committee to fight this battle with us.”
The campaign comes at a time when substance abuse continues to affect many communities in the province, especially young people. Through this initiative, the provincial government aims to strengthen community policing, increase awareness, and provide better access to support and rehabilitation services.
Officials from Gauteng Provincial Government and community-based organizations joined the event, distributing information material and engaging residents on practical ways to tackle addiction at a local level.
The Premier also highlighted the role of schools, faith-based groups, and local businesses in creating a united front. “This is not just a government campaign — it’s a community movement,” he added.
The #TswaDaar initiative will continue to roll out across the province in the coming weeks, targeting areas most affected by substance abuse.
Location: Jabulani Mall, Soweto
Campaign: #TswaDaar Anti-Substance Abuse
Lead: Premier Panyaza Lesufi