Hon Speaker, the role of the Central Drug Authority, CDA, is to guide the development and implementation of programmes for prevention, treatment and creation of public awareness about substance abuse in our communities. The Central Drug Authority therefore serves as the advisory structure in terms of implementing the national drug master plan, which is a national blueprint for tackling the scourge of alcohol and substance abuse.
As the Minister responsible for overseeing the work of the CDA, I have taken significant steps to ensure that the CDA board plays a more meaningful role especially in our prevention efforts at local level. I have also instructed the CDA to develop a proper monitoring tool that will enable us to ensure that there is progress in the implementation of the revised master plan.
In addition, the CDA is required to report to the Inter-ministerial Committee on Substance Abuse established by Cabinet in 2010. To complement the work of the CDA, the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Substance Abuse has developed the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme of Action, which was approved by Cabinet in 2011. The National Drug Master Plan and the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme of Action together outline government's approach to reducing alcohol and substance abuse. Prevention through education, community engagement and early intervention are fundamental to ensure long- lasting change across our society.
However, government alone will not produce the changes needed to stem the tide against the scourge of alcohol and substance abuse. Everyone has a responsibility to act, and this is the time to act. We remain hopeful that working together, we will continue to make significant progress against alcohol and substance abuse in South Africa. Through our continued and collective efforts, we can build a drug-free society. Thank you.