NCJ Number
209037
Date Published
October 2004
Length
11 pages
Annotation
After assessing current drug trends in South Africa in terms of trafficking, use, and drug-related crime, this paper describes the country's response to the problem.
Abstract
South Africa is the largest market for illicit drugs that enter Southern Africa. The country's porous borders, relative affluence, and international trade links have made it an attractive drug transit country. Significant income inequalities in South Africa also make drug trafficking an attractive alternative for underprivileged groups. Cannabis is the most popular illicit drug used in the country, followed by mandrax (methaqualone), cocaine, and heroin. Research has confirmed a high positive correlation between drug use and crime, as drug use is disproportionately found among arrestees. The basis for the national drug control plan is the 5-year National Drug Master Plan adopted by the Parliament in February 1999. The plan involves a balanced approach in addressing both drug supply and demand. The priority areas of the Master Plan are to reduce drug-related crime, protect youth from drug use, support community health and welfare programs, strengthen research and information dissemination, encourage international involvement, and improve communication about substance abuse with all groups in the country. The Central Drug Authority was established in 2000 to coordinate the Nation's drug control efforts and monitor implementation of the Master Plan. This paper also describes other national institutions involved in drug law enforcement; demand reduction through prevention and treatment; correctional services for drug-abusing offenders; and community mobilization and collaboration among relevant sectors. The paper concludes with recommendations for improving the Nation's response to the drug abuse problem. 16 references