The Department of Social Development has called for stronger prevention, early intervention and community support as South Africa marked International Overdose Awareness Day on Monday.
The department held its national commemoration at Galeshewe Recreational Hall in Kimberley under the global theme “25 Years On. Still Needed”.
Government departments, community organisations, young people and service providers attended the programme, which focused on substance use, overdose risks and access to treatment and family support.
Social Development said its response includes prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation, psychosocial support and referrals. The department works with health authorities, police, municipalities, schools and community organisations.
Government focuses on early intervention
The department said young people and families were a central focus because risks can be identified earlier through schools, social workers and community programmes.
It also called for less stigma around substance-use disorders, saying people affected by substance use should be treated with dignity and connected to professional services.
The Kimberley programme formed part of International Overdose Awareness Day, observed globally on 31 August. The campaign began in 2001 and marks its 25th year in 2026.
Social Development said it would continue coordinating prevention and recovery programmes with the Department of Health, the South African Police Service and civil-society organisations.
