TAUNG TREATMENT CENTRE OPENS ITS DOORS TO SUPPORT CLIENTS BATTLING SUBSTANCE ABUSE

By Petrus Siko.

• The Department of Social Development has officially opened its second state-run treatment centre for substance use disorders in Taung, North West Province.
• The facility, located within Taung Hospital, admitted its first group of service users on 26 June, coinciding with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
• The centre responds to growing demand for inpatient rehabilitation services and marks a significant expansion of government’s efforts to combat substance abuse through integrated, district-based delivery.

The Department of Social Development has begun admitting clients at the new state-run substance use treatment centre in Taung, marking a major milestone in expanding access to rehabilitation services in the North West. The centre, based at Taung Hospital, will offer in-patient care to clients from across the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, helping to respond to the rising demand for support and recovery. Acting Head of Department, Peggy Mhlongo-Kgaboesele, led the first admissions and hailed the collaboration between social development, health and local stakeholders as a powerful example of the District Development Model in action.

On Thursday, 26 June 2025, seven men took a brave step toward recovery as the Taung Treatment Centre officially admitted its first group of service users. The event coincided with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, adding symbolic weight to the moment.

Leading the day’s programme, the Acting Head of Department for Social Development in the North West, Ms Peggy Mhlongo-Kgaboesele, said the launch marked a critical turning point in how government supports people affected by substance use. “This is more than a facility. It is a commitment to human dignity, to second chances, and to building healthier communities. Today, we begin restoring hope for those who need it most,” she said.

Located within the Taung Hospital premises, the centre will provide in-patient rehabilitation for up to 20 service users at a time, with ten beds reserved for women and ten for men. It is only the second state-run facility of its kind in the province. According to Ms Mhlongo-Kgaboesele, the establishment of the facility is a response to the increasing need for dedicated treatment services in rural areas, especially for individuals with limited means or access to private care. “This centre is a result of strategic partnerships and alignment with our district development approach. It is a real example of what integrated service delivery can look like,” she said.

Before the centre opened for admissions, social development and health officials had already been delivering community-based services across the district. Since 2018, their work has included screening, home-based counselling, awareness campaigns and referrals for clients with dual diagnoses to psychiatric care units. The centre received its occupancy certificate in April 2025 and has been conditionally registered for 12 months in line with the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act (Act 70 of 2008).

Assistant manager at Taung Hospital, Ms Rebeccah Setona, explained that the hospital has played a critical role in managing the health needs of substance users, including detoxification before admission into in-patient rehabilitation. “Clients who require detox must first visit their nearest clinic or hospital. Once stabilised and assessed, they are referred to the Department of Social Development for the next phase of care and rehabilitation,” said Ms Setona. She confirmed that the process is voluntary and based on informed consent, in line with health legislation.

As the service continues to grow, the Department of Social Development is preparing to formalise its collaboration with the Department of Health through a memorandum of understanding. This will ensure that services are delivered in a coordinated and consistent manner. The opening of the Taung Treatment Centre not only marks a significant milestone in the fight against substance abuse but also signals government’s ongoing investment in evidence-based interventions and compassionate care. For those starting their journey at Taung, it represents a new chapter, one rooted in support, healing and the promise of recovery.