AWARE.org and NICRO are addressing drunk driving through rehabilitation, helping offenders understand risky behaviour, take responsibility and develop safer driving habits through structured interventions and support.
The Shifting Gears Diversion Programme, implemented in partnership with the National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Rehabilitation of Offenders (NICRO) and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), focuses on reducing repeat offences through education and behavioural change.
On 27 October 2026, AWARE.org representatives visited NICRO’s Mofolo South facility in Soweto to observe the programme in action and engage with participants and facilitators.
The visit highlighted an approach to road safety that extends beyond arrests and prosecution by addressing the attitudes and decisions that contribute to alcohol-related driving offences.
During the visit, participants shared their experiences and reflections, while facilitators discussed the programme’s implementation, achievements and challenges.
AWARE.org CEO Mokebe Thulo said observing interventions directly provides important insight into how participants respond to rehabilitation.
“Visiting programmes on the ground is important because it allows us to see the work in practice, understand how participants engage with the messaging and identify opportunities to strengthen delivery,” said Thulo.
He emphasised that meaningful behavioural change depends on how individuals experience rehabilitation and whether it helps them make different choices.
The programme has reported encouraging outcomes among participants whose progress was monitored after completing the intervention.
According to NICRO Gauteng Provincial Manager Samuel Tshabangu, 95% of tracked participants did not reoffend during the first 12 months following completion.
“Listening to participants share their real-life experiences reinforces why this work matters. We are particularly encouraged by the programme’s outcomes: 95% of tracked participants did not reoffend within the first 12 months after completing the intervention,” said Tshabangu.
While the reported outcome does not establish that rehabilitation alone prevented further offences, it provides an indication of the programme’s potential contribution to safer driving behaviour.
Shifting Gears consists of six facilitated group sessions designed to help participants examine their attitudes towards alcohol consumption and driving.
The sessions explore how alcohol affects judgement, decision-making and personal responsibility, alongside the potential consequences of unsafe driving.
Participants consider the emotional and psychological impact of road accidents, including the harm caused to victims and families, as well as financial consequences such as medical expenses, vehicle damage and legal costs.
The programme also encourages individuals to reflect on their responsibilities towards other road users and the importance of making safer decisions.
Adults arrested for driving under the influence or other road-related offences may be referred through the courts, depending on their suitability for the intervention.
Participants complete a final assignment and receive aftercare support, with their progress monitored for up to 12 months.
The partnership between AWARE.org, NICRO and JMPD demonstrates how collaboration between civil society organisations, rehabilitation specialists and law enforcement can support broader road safety efforts.
Rather than treating enforcement and rehabilitation as competing approaches, the programme combines accountability with opportunities for individuals to change harmful behaviour.
Thulo stressed that prevention remains the most important message for motorists.
“The safest plan is made before the first drink,” he said.
“Anyone who has consumed alcohol should not drive and should arrange a safe way home. Make the Right Choice.”
The initiative highlights the importance of sustained education, rehabilitation and responsible personal choices in reducing alcohol-related harm and protecting communities on South Africa’s roads.
