Behind Closed Doors: The Link Between Lean and Gender-Based Violence in South Africa

Gender-based violence (GBV) has deep roots in South Africa, affecting many lives and families. It stems from entrenched social norms, harmful behaviours, and inequalities, particularly in communities where poverty and unemployment are high. One aspect of GBV that we cannot ignore is the role of substance abuse. In this article, I want to focus on lean, a substance that has found its way into our communities and has become a significant contributor to the rise of violence, particularly gender-based violence, in South Africa.

Lean, is a mixture of cough syrup (containing codeine and promethazine), Fizzy soft drinks. The substance originated in the United States. It first became an issue in the United States during the 1960s Motown era, particularly in Houston, Texas, where it was popular among musicians. Initially, the substance was seen as part of the nightlife and music culture, but by the 1990s, it became a more widespread problem, leading to numerous health issues and eventually an addiction crisis.

In South Africa, lean has become prominent in the last two decades, finding a foothold in areas where unemployment, poverty, and absence of social cohesion are rampant. The substance is often used as an escape from the hardships and trauma of life. The euphoria it provides is temporary, while the long-term effects are truly devastating especially in impoverished communities.

There is no simple solution, but as a society, we must acknowledge the role substances like lean play in perpetuating violence. Greater access to rehabilitation programs, better education on the dangers of drug use, more stringent rules on its dispensary, and stronger social support systems are necessary to break the cycle. Only then can we begin to build a safer, more equitable society where women and children are no longer at risk in their own homes.