Count down to our biggest walk yet. Every step towards recovery matters.
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A Call for Recovery Recognition
At the 11th Recovery Walk Cape Town (18 October 2025), our community presented a Memorandum to the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town. This memorandum calls for recovery to be visible, celebrated, and supported across our province.
We invite you to stand with us: Read the full memorandum and add your voice by signing the petition.
Cape Town Recovery Walk is a part of an open recovery movement
We celebrate all forms of recovery from addiction & other mental illnesses
Recovery Walk Cape Town is a free, inclusive, sober community event celebrating recovery from addiction and mental illness. Held annually in September and/or October, the walk brings together people in recovery, families, professionals, allies, and advocates to share stories, connect with support networks, and challenge the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health.
Through a symbolic walk in the streets of Cape Town, we celebrate all pathways to recovery and inspire hope, connection, and healing.
Recovery Walk Cape Town is a volunteer-run not-for-profit organisation (NPO 193-592). Our work is made possible through community support and donations. Support our mission via our BackaBuddy campaign:
WE CELEBRATE
We celebrate recovery from addiction and mental illness as a lived reality for many people in South Africa and across the world. Addiction and mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of background or circumstance. In South Africa, an estimated 13.3% of people meet the criteria for substance use disorder (Herman et al., 2009).
WE SHOW SOLUTIONS
Recovery is possible, and there is no single path to healing. Recovery Walk Cape Town highlights diverse recovery journeys and connects people with support, resources, and communities they may not otherwise access.
WE CHANGE PERCEPTION
We challenge the shame, stigma, and discrimination often associated with addiction and mental illness. By sharing our stories, we humanise recovery, build understanding, and create space for hope and connection.
WE PROVIDE SUPPORT
We celebrate people in recovery and honour those working in prevention, treatment, and recovery support. We stand alongside local organisations, community networks, and global recovery movements committed to meaningful change.
REFERENCES
Herman, A. A., Stein, D. J., Seedat, S., Heeringa, S. G., Moomal, H., & Williams, D. R. (2009). The South African Stress and Health (SASH) study: 12-month and lifetime prevalence of common mental disorders. South African medical journal, 99(5).
Why participate?
COMMUNITY
You want to attend a sober, inclusive community event.
You want to connect with others in a meaningful, alcohol- and drug-free space.
You want to support a positive and inclusive mental health initiative.
RECOVERY
You are in recovery, seeking recovery, or supporting someone in recovery.
You want to share or celebrate recovery stories.
You recognise that addiction and mental illness affect us all.
ADVOCACY
You work in mental health, addiction, or community support.
You want to challenge stigma and raise awareness.
Fundraising
donate
Recovery Walk Cape Town is a volunteer-run not-for-profit organisation (NPO 193-592) with no paid staff. Donations help cover event costs and support our mission to make recovery visible, accessible, and celebrated.
Support our BackaBuddy campaign:
volunteer
Recovery Walk Cape Town is powered by volunteers. Whether you are in recovery, supporting a loved one, working in the field, or passionate about mental health, your time and support help make this event possible.
To volunteer, contact:
get involved
Recovery Walk Cape Town brings communities together to show that recovery is real and support is available. We welcome individuals, organisations, rehabs, hospitals, and community groups to be part of this growing recovery movement.
To host a stall, offer an activity, or get involved, contact recoverywalkcapetown@gmail.com