Scientology Churches Countering South Africa Drug Crisis

More than 400 attend drug prevention specialist seminars in Scientology Churches amid news of escalating drug use in the country.

Illegal drugs and drug addiction in South Africa are a scourge West Cape Premier Helen Zille described as “a horrific situation that constitutes one of our greatest social crises.” The problem has escalated to such an extent that Zille and Albert Fritz, Member of West Cape Premier’s Executive Council for Social Development, announced August 19 that their provincial government will spend more than R87 million this year to tackle the abuse of drugs and alcohol. This is more than twice what was allocated to the problem four years ago.

Scientology Churches are addressing the problem by working with like-minded groups and individuals throughout South Africa to prevent drug abuse before it occurs. They reach young people with factual information about what drugs are and what they do to help them make the self-determined decision to live drug-free.

As part of this program, on August 17 and 18, the Churches of Scientology Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Durban conducted drug education specialist seminars based on The Truth About Drugs—the drug education initiative the Church supports. More than 400 educators, government officials, parents, community and religious leaders attended.

At the Church of Scientology of Pretoria, attendees also toured the Public Information Center where all elements of the Truth About Drugs drug education and prevention program are on display.

The Truth About Drugs consists of 13 fact-filled booklets and award-winning videos. The curriculum is designed to interest and engage young people, allowing them to examine their own ideas and compare what they have been told about drugs with the cold, hard facts of abuse.

Scientology Churches make The Truth About Drugs materials available free of charge to educators, law enforcement and community programs.

It has been conclusively proven that when young people are provided with factual information on what drugs are and what they do, usage rates drop commensurately.

Scientologists on five continents work in their communities throughout the year to empower others with the truth about drugs. The Church and its members are dedicated to eradicating drug abuse through education.

The Church of Scientology has published a brochure, Scientology: How We Help—The Truth About Drugs, Creating a Drug-Free World to meet requests for more information about the drug education and prevention initiative it supports. To learn more or read the brochure, visit the Scientology website.

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, “The planet has hit a barrier which prevents any widespread social progress—drugs and other biochemical substances. These can put people into a condition which not only prohibits and destroys physical health but which can prevent any stable advancement in mental or spiritual well-being.”