Emalahleni — Membra “MJ” Maluleke and Sifiso “Kay” Ngomane, both well-known local bikers in Emalahleni, founded the Greater Generation Disciplinary Camp (GGDC) to address increasing cases of school violence, substance abuse and behavioural problems among young people.
The camp emerged after a viral video of a school fight exposed the growing crisis of violence and indiscipline among learners. “We saw school children fighting, some had drugs [while] others [would carry] weapons. Parents were crying out for help, not just at school but at home, too,” said Mebra.
The camp, hosted at Ulwandle Tranquillity Lodge near Emalahleni, runs for seven to 10 days and accommodates participants between the ages of 8 and 26. So far, 40 children and young adults have completed the programme. It follows a military-inspired structure that includes physical training, leadership development, community service and counselling sessions. Parents contribute a small fee to help cover operational costs.
The purpose of the camp is to build discipline and self-awareness among young people. “We’re tough on them, yes,” says Maluleke. “But the goal isn’t to break but to build them. We show them there’s strength in self-control, respect and resilience.”
The GGDC works with several partners, including South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, the National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Reintegration of Offenders, Kakaramba Foundation, the Emalahleni SAPS and Community Policing Forum and the Pentecostal Protestant Church. These organisations assist with substance abuse prevention, crime, emotional wellbeing and spirituality.
To ensure lasting impact, the team conducts follow-up home and school visits after each camp to monitor participants’ progress.
“After camp, we visit their homes,” said Maluleke. “We talk to parents, check progress and investigate if there’s any relapse or improvement. Parents must be hands-on, we can’t run these children’s lives on autopilot. If the child relapses, they come back to camp, but this time with more understanding and commitment.”
One of the testimonies to GGDC’s impact comes from 14-year-old Camper Number Eight who shared his journey. “I came to the camp because I was disrespecting my parents and mistreating my sister. Since camp, I’ve become more disciplined. I communicate better with my family, I’ve been chosen as rugby team captain, and I even qualified for an international trip to the USA. My grades are above 70%. This camp didn’t just change me, it saved me.”
Another 16-year-old Camper Number 13 who once found himself caught up in substance abuse said the experience helped him regain control. “I was smoking dagga and vape until my parents brought me to the Greater Generation. There, I learned respect, responsibility and love. I now understand that my actions hurt my parents. I no longer use substances, and I’m thankful for my commanders and generals who still check on me today.”
Since its official registration in November 2024, the initiative has received strong support from parents, schools and community organisations. “The community was waiting for something like this. We get daily calls from parents asking for help. Our social media is full of thank-you messages. That’s how we know we’re doing something right,” said Ngomane.
The founders long-term vision is to establish a boarding-style reform school that combines academics, discipline, survival skills and emotional education. “One day, we want to have a full-time facility where we can mentor young people year-round. A place where they can learn how to live right in body, mind and soul,” said Maluleke.
As the Greater Generation continues to grow, its mission remains rooted in compassion and community. In a society where children are exposed to drugs and violence as early as nine years old, this grassroots movement has become a movement of hope and healing.
