The Central Drug Authority in South Africa is set to potentially revive its past, as a joint parliamentary subcommittee has shortlisted 27 applicants, including several former members, for its new board. This development comes despite the authority's poor record in addressing drug abuse in the country. The new board will comprise 34 members, with 13 seats allocated to experts from outside government.
The Central Drug Authority was established under the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act to advise the government on drug policy and provide prevention, treatment, and aftercare services nationwide. However, the authority has been without a board since the previous term expired on March 31. In August, MPs expressed concerns over the authority's lack of progress, citing little to show for its work.
Some MPs defended the decision to shortlist former members, citing the importance of institutional knowledge and continuity. MP Nicola du Plessis stated that candidates with experience at the authority were chosen for their deep understanding of research and substance abuse services. Similarly, MP Rev Nhlanhla Gcwabaza supported the shortlisting of former members, emphasizing the need for continuity and giving them another chance.
The shortlisting process involved 33 qualifying applicants out of 102 CVs received, with 71 applicants not meeting the requirements. The subcommittee, comprising four MPs from the National Assembly's social development committee and four members of the National Council of Provinces' social services committee, agreed not to cap the number of names each member could put forward. One member put forward 15 candidates.
The shortlisted names will be published for public comment, and candidates will undergo security vetting. Interviews are provisionally planned for November 10 to 12 and are expected to be held in Gauteng to save costs, as most shortlisted candidates are from that province. Social development minister Dina Pule, appointed in July, will appoint the new board members once she receives recommendations.
The Central Drug Authority's revival comes at a critical time, as South Africa faces a growing drug abuse problem. According to the SA Medical Research Council's latest drug-trend report, almost a quarter of the 7,975 people admitted to specialist drug treatment centers in the first half of 2025 were 18 or younger, up from 18% in the previous six months. Cannabis was the main drug for 73% of young patients, and tik was the main drug for 17% of all patients.
The new board will be expected to address the challenges faced by the authority and make significant progress in tackling drug abuse in South Africa. MP Makhi Feni emphasized that the new board would have to correct the challenges not addressed by the previous board. The subcommittee meets again on October 21 to further discuss the appointments.
Key points
- The Central Drug Authority board has been shortlisted amid controversy, with former members included despite the authority's poor record.
- The new board will comprise 34 members, with 13 seats allocated to experts from outside government.
- The authority faces a growing drug abuse problem, with a significant increase in young patients admitted to specialist drug treatment centers.
