Non-profit organization World Changers Candidate (WCC) is urging churches, parents, and communities to unite in combating the growing acceptance of drug culture among youth. The call comes as Easter Sunday coincides with ‘Four-Twenty’ (April 20), a day widely associated with cannabis celebration.
WCC chairperson Lucas Mahlakgane explains that cannabis users mark this date, much like other drug-related events such as the International Day Against Drug Abuse (June 26). He traces ‘Four-Twenty’ to a 1970s U.S. college tradition where students gathered at 4:20 p.m. to smoke weed. The trend later spread to South Africa following cannabis legalization.
Mahlakgane warns parents against being misled by children who claim cannabis is legal. “Many parents are unaware of the risks,” he says. “When confronted, youth often argue, ‘Weed is legal,’ but legality doesn’t mean it’s safe or permissible for everyone.” He emphasizes the need for education and stricter guidance to prevent drug abuse among young people.
