MINISTER EXTENDS CALL FOR NOMINATION FOR CENTRAL DRUG AUTHORITY (CDA) MEMBERS

By DSD News.

• Deadline extended to 15 July 2025 for nominating candidates to serve on the CDA, offering more time for qualified individuals to apply.
• Nominees must hold a bachelor’s degree (NQF Level 7) and have at least five years of relevant experience in fields linked to substance abuse prevention, treatment, or enforcement.
• The CDA plays a critical advisory and coordinating role in implementing the National Drug Master Plan, with 13 public members to be appointed from nominations.

The national battle against substance abuse is getting a renewed push as Social Development Minister Ms Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe extends the deadline for nominations to serve on the Central Drug Authority (CDA). Individuals and stakeholders now have until 15 July 2025 to put forward candidates with the qualifications, skills, and passion to help drive South Africa’s anti-substance abuse agenda forward.
The CDA is central to the country’s response to substance abuse, advising the Minister on policy and coordinating the National Drug Master Plan. The Authority supports prevention, treatment, and reintegration programmes, ensuring that communities receive the help they need to tackle the scourge of drugs and alcohol.
The CDA comprises 34 members: 21 from government departments and 13 appointed through public nominations, with the latter group currently open for recruitment. Nominees must hold at least an NQF Level 7 qualification (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) and have at least five years of experience in substance-abuse-related fields such as research, prevention, treatment, reintegration, aftercare, or law enforcement.
Minister Tolashe has urged civil society, academic institutions, and professionals to seize the opportunity to nominate people who can bring knowledge and integrity to the Authority’s mission. The existing CDA members’ term runs until March 2026, so new appointees will be expected to build on that foundation and help shape the next phase of the country’s anti-drug strategy.
Nomination forms and detailed requirements are available on the Department of Social Development website (https://www.dsd.gov.za) or at the Department’s Pretoria office. All nominations must be complete and received by the closing date, after which Parliament will shortlist qualifying candidates for final appointment by the Minister.