International Day against Drug Abuse 2023

26 June 2023

The United Nations General Assembly in 1987 decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, chooses themes for the International Day and launches campaigns to raise awareness about the global drug problem. Health is the ongoing theme of the world drug campaign. The Prevention and Treatment of Drug Dependency Act (Act 20 of 1992) and the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act (Act 70 of 2008), provide our people with the establishment of programmes for the prevention and treatment of drug dependency.

The Central Drug Authority was established as an advisory body in terms of the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act (Act No. 70 of 2008) and is mandated to assist in the fight against substance abuse in the country.

Alcohol and substance abuse is a complex socio-economic issue that requires a multi-stakeholder and integrated approach towards a drug-free society, captured in the National Drug Master Plan. Creating awareness of dangers of the substance abuse in society and effecting behavioural change are integral parts of the National Drug Master Plan.


What you can do

Government calls on all South Africans to join hands in the implementation of the national programme of action against substance and alcohol abuse. Community support is extremely important to prevent, treat, rehabilitate, and accept those addicted to substances, alcohol, and addictive behaviour. Let us help break the stigma and promote faster recovery.

  • Be a good role model and empower young people to deal with life challenges to buffer substance abuse.

  • Be a messenger - provide factually correct information on the negative socio-economic effects of substance abuse to bring about behavioural changes.

  • Don’t drink and drive - Arrive Alive!

  • Celebrate year-end festivities soberly and responsibly.

  •  Say NO to drugs.

  • Partner with government volunteers and support rehabilitation programmes to increase access to information for affected individuals and communities.

PROCARE