STATS

One in 3 adults in South Africa uses drugs on a regular basis. At least 15% of South Africans have a drug problem - Nationally over all age and gender groups. Highest number of Children Born with fetal Alcohol syndrome— possibly highest in the world. 20% increase in cocaine usage in 2 years.

In 2004, government disbanded the SA Narcotics Bureau (SANAB), a dedicated drug fighting unit within the SAPS that had achieved some notable successes. Since its closure, drug related crimes have increased exponentially - in fact by 30 percent.

The recently - released United Nations World Drug Report had named South Africa as one of the drug capitals of the World. The Abuse of alcohol and usage of dagga has lead to the country becoming one of the top ten narcotics and alcohol abusers in the world. Alcohol is responsible for nearly half of all motor accidents.

Over 30% of our population have an alcohol problem or are at risk of having one. Alcohol affects 17,5 million South Africans 18-22 years olds are the group of heaviest. 35% of High Schools kids are problem drinkers who drink at least 9 units of spirits, 1 liter of wine or 2 liters of beer.

The use of dagga has increased by 20% in two years. South Africans use double the amount of dagga, than the average world-wide figure Mandrax ( Methaqualone) - South Africa is the largest user of Mandrax in the world.

"Satans plan is to cause between you animosity & hatred through intoxicants & gambling & to avert you from the remebrance of ALLAH & from prayer. So will you not desist?" Surah Al-maidah Verse 91

Alhumdulillah R.A.U.F has reached another annual milestone in serving the Ummah across South Africa. Of course, all its achievements has only been possible through the Will of Allah (SWT) and the energetic and committed effort of R.A.U.F sees no lessening in the communities need for its specialized services and is geared to handle the greater challenges over the foreseeable future, Insha Allah.

Of great concern is the role of family. Parents are increasingly losing control with their homes. As we know, a strong and vibrant family unit is the answer to maintain stability in society and unfortunately this foundation is being jolted with terrible after-shocks which destroys the very fabric of the family and could take years to reconstruct depending on family co-operation and adherence to the rehabilitation process.

Intoxicants in various forms are and easily made available even to little kids with horrendous repercussions both to the health of the individual and the financial and social stability of the family. Parents must take the effort to re-establish and enforce their critical roles and control in the family by re-examining and enhancing their parenting skills.

The parent - child relationship should be reciprocal where obligations of both parent and the child are clearly defined, understood and agreed. Parents have an obligation towards nurturing and educating their children with good and proper morals and values.Similarly, children must uphold their obligation to respect parents in return.