Mark Mosdell Takes the Helm of Knysna's Local Drug Action Committee

Knysna, South Africa, bids welcome to a new leader in its fight against substance abuse. In a noteworthy announcement made on July 4, Knysna Executive Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa proclaimed that Mark Mosdell, the respected principal of Knysna High School, has been elected chairperson of the Local Drug Action Committee (LDAC)—an entity that orchestrates efforts to diminish the prevalence of substance abuse within the community.

The LDAC, which convenes quarterly, is a coalition of dedicated members, including representatives from pivotal sectors such as the Department of Health, the Western Cape Education Department, Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre, Knysna Municipality, Law Enforcement, Department of Correctional Services, Community Police Forum, Knysna Police Services, and the Department of Justice. This multifaceted team is singularly focused on implementing strategies aligned with the National Drug Master Plan (NDMP).

Rooted in national policy, LDACs not only operationalize the NDMP within their municipalities but also contribute feedback to both the Western Cape Substance Abuse Forum and the Central Drug Authority annually. They are tasked with upholding the mandates outlined in the Prevention and Treatment of Substance Abuse Act of 2008. The blueprint guiding LDACs is periodically refreshed, and the current NDMP covers the period from 2019 to 2024, obliging government departments to integrate substance abuse counteraction measures into their operational frameworks.

Upon his appointment, Mr. Mosdell's inaugural mission is to establish a comprehensive database intended to act as a resource for family support services—a testament to the LDAC's commitment to community empowerment and wellness. Mayor Tsengwa expressed his optimism regarding the impact of the LDAC under Mosdell's stewardship, extending his gratitude to all the members for their unwavering dedication to service.

The community of Knysna now watches with expectant hope as Mark Mosdell steps into his new role, geared towards steering concerted efforts to eradicate the specter of substance abuse and foster a safer, healthier environment for all residents.