Lekwa Local Municipality in collaboration with the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator hosted an awareness campaign on the consequences of irresponsible Gambling, Liquor Trade and Consumption which took place at Sakhile Hall.
The campaign brought together key stakeholders including the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, The Department of Social Development, Lekwa Local Drug Action Committee, Sakhile Youth Empowerment Centre, The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), Mpumalanga Addiction Rehabilitation Centre (MARC), and SAPS.
The event was graced by the presence of MMC for Planning and Economic Development Cllr. Sesana Masondo together with Cllr. Smanga Ngwenya, Cllr. Jabulani Xulu and Cllr. Sibusiso Ngqulunga.
The MMC in her words alluded, “irresponsible gambling, liquor trade, and consumption can have severe consequences on individuals, families, and society as a whole. Being not responsible can contribute to increase crime rates, public violence, and disorderly conduct”.
The initiative also created a platform for community members to raise their concerns and to be empowered with knowledge on how to identify and report illegal activities in their communities.
This campaign not only strengthened partnerships among government departments, law enforcement, and social organisations, but also demonstrated the municipality’s commitment to promoting healthier and safer communities. It highlighted the collective responsibility required to reduce social ills associated with gambling and liquor misuse.
The municipality reaffirmed its dedication to ongoing awareness programmes and community driven interventions.