On October 26, Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) hosted a community dialogue against drugs and substance abuse at New Hall, Ratanda.
Theme of this dialogue was "health for justice, justice for health", emphasizing importance of a holistic approach when dealing with drug problems and integrating criminal justice, health and social services institutions.
Residents of Ratanda gathered in their numbers and were eager to engage on new approaches to fight their drug tormented community alongside GDSD, Gauteng Department of Health (GDH), Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), South African Police Service (SAPS), South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) and Freedom Recovery Centre.
Maria Maduze from GDSD articulated purpose of the day very well, emphasising that the community must hold hands together to fight the drugs and alcohol monster. "Ours is a tough fight, a fight against drugs."
 
Piet Mojaha, former drug user, alluded that black people were not taught to deal with emotions. Instead they let drugs and substance abuse become familiar outlets of their burdens or hardships in life. He boldly said, "Drugs are for cowards who cannot face challenging circumstances. Don't 'sing in my times'; your best time is NOW! Let it count. Don't waste it away."
He further urged youth to be an inspiration first to themselves before the world; change can only come if you are willing. Youth was invited to the stage to vow and chant "I will not let my community go to waste under my watch."
GDE Safety Co-ordinator, Khosi Mokele said at district level they encounter learners coming to school premises already drunk and high on cannabis. She iterated the significance of parents raising responsible children and monitoring their behaviour both at home and school.
Freedom Recovery Centre's Addiction Counsellor, Joana Mabaso encouraged families to show support by visiting recovering users and to stop ostracizing recovering users.
The community agreed to the plea of SAPS Constable Maluleke's that instead of defending their children against arrest they will look at helping them live and lead sustainable livelihoods instead of being repeat offenders. "Let's stop judging people and assist them", the Constable said.