Phola — A small effective project in the centre of Phola is changing the way communities react to drug abuse. A local nonprofit organisation called Phola Family Integrated Research, has adopted a comprehensive strategy to help those from underprivileged backgrounds, especially those who are battling addiction. For addicts who frequently go days without eating, the team makes soft porridge three days a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Johannes Mtshweni, a 43-year-old ex-addict and former IT lecturer, started the programme. Johannes has now been clean for six years after being in substance abuse for 16 years. He launched this project as a result of his recovery process. “I realised how crucial it is to have someone who understands you,” he said. “I am aware of the suffering these people endure. I am aware of their difficulties. To get you into the light, sometimes you need someone who has experienced the same darkness as you.”
The organisation registers at least 17 new people every week and serves about 37 people on each cooking day. Proving how many community members need help. With support from local sponsors like MP Rise, Shabonga Cleaning Services, Phola Taxi Association, SoGutjhe Royal House, and Man of Truth, the organisation continues to provide food, care and hope.
The organisation emphasises that dealing with addiction requires empathy, support and access to trustworthy information. The porridge programme has become a safe space for people who frequently feel stigmatised and condemned by society.
According to Mtshweni, the nutrition initiative serves as a platform for education as well. “We are educating people about HIV and AIDS, particularly those who use needles (Bluetooth) or inject drugs. These are risky behaviours that put users at risk for severe infections. It is our responsibility to supply both food and information.”
Bonga Nkosi, a heroin user whose life illustrates the severe effects of addiction, is one of the daily beneficiaries. “I don’t have anything to eat at home, so I am thankful for the Phola Mdogo nutrition programme,” he said. “I work as a car washer to supplement my income.” I can earn R400 on a good day, but I need R190 for heroin. It governs my life.”
Nkosi, who was diagnosed with asthma in December 2025, says that his addiction has made it harder for him to maintain his health. “I only smoked twice while I was in the hospital because I was unsure of my release date. I’d like to stop, but I can’t, I feel as though my addiction is a part of me.”
Addiction has a profound effect on families. Sibongile Mpukane, whose brother Skhumbuzo suffers from substance abuse, talked about the psychological toll and the pain. “We have suffered greatly because of my brother’s actions. He sells everything from blankets to pots to maize meals. We have made every effort to assist him. We don’t know who he has become, so at this point we feel hopeless.”
Traditional leadership in the area has taken action to recognise the crisis. Ndabezitha Sipho Mahlangu of SoGutjhe Royal House voiced concern for the youth. “These young people are our children. It is our duty to help them return to their former selves before drugs took over their lives,” he said.
