The South African Network of People Who Use Drugs (SANPUD) is making significant strides in empowering people who use drugs by establishing local networks that advocate for their human rights. Unlike many organisations focused solely on rehabilitation, SANPUD’s putting people first approach recognises the importance of supporting drug users in a more holistic manner, particularly in advocating for their rights and combating the discrimination they face.

Recently, SANPUD conducted governance training workshops in QwaQwa on March 13th and 14th and in Amajuba district on March 15th and 16th. These workshops aimed to establish networks of people who use drugs in both areas. The main objective was to prepare these networks to effectively advocate for the needs of people who use drugs. As a result, four networks were established in two provinces: two in QwaQwa, namely the Lusaka PWUD Network and the Phuthaditjhaba PWUD Network in the Free State. Madadeni PWUD network & Osizweni PWUD network in KwaZulu Natal. Each network received a tablet to facilitate communication and further their advocacy efforts.

The governance training workshops were led by Charne Roberts, with support from Lucky Ndlovu and Klaas Mtshweni. Twenty people who use drugs (PWUDs) attended the training in each district. This was a critical first step in empowering these individuals to form networks that will work towards promoting and protecting their human rights.

A Personal Eye-Opening Experience

“As someone who had little prior knowledge of networks like SANPUD, the workshops provided invaluable insights into the discrimination and judgment faced by people who use drugs. Too often, they are denied access to essential government services that are their right as citizens. Worse still, they are frequently blamed for crimes they did not commit solely based on their appearance and status as drug users.”

Building Strong and Effective Networks

Through these workshops, participants learned essential skills for establishing and managing their own networks. This includes defining the vision and mission of the network, identifying the challenges that people who use drugs encounter, and devising actionable solutions to alleviate these problems. A network’s success hinges on the presence of effective leadership—leaders who possess qualities beneficial to the network—and a committed group of skilled members who can drive the network’s growth.

One crucial element touched on during the training is the importance of funding. Every network requires financial resources to operate and achieve its goals. Managing these funds responsibly is essential, and this involves creating and adhering to a budget. Proper budget allocation ensures that various parts of the network receive the necessary funding without overspending, thereby maintaining a sustainable operation.

Changing Perceptions and Advocating for Rights

The work of SANPUD is particularly important in changing the negative perceptions associated with drug use. By empowering those who use drugs to advocate for their own rights, SANPUD is fostering a sense of dignity and self-worth among a group that is often marginalized. This is not just about giving them a voice but ensuring that their voices are heard in discussions about their lives and their futures.

Moving Towards a National Network

The ultimate goal of SANPUD’s efforts is to create a national network comprised of these local nodes. This network will give people who use drugs a strong and powerful platform to ensure their involvement in policy discussions and decision-making processes that affect their lives. By doing so, SANPUD is laying the groundwork for substantial and long-lasting changes in how society views and treats people who use drugs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SANPUD is doing remarkable work by empowering people who use drugs to establish local networks and advocate for their rights. Through governance training and resource provision, SANPUD is helping to combat stigma, advocate for systemic changes, and ultimately improve the lives of people who use drugs. As more people become aware of and support these initiatives, we can hope for a future where the rights of all individuals, regardless of their drug use status, are protected and respected.