Parents in Limpopo are increasingly turning to disciplinary camps as a last resort to address rebellious behavior and substance abuse among their children. However, concerns have been raised about the safety and legality of such facilities following the death of a 29-year-old man at a similar camp.
One such facility in Ga-Sekgopo village, outside Modjadjiskloof, where campers undergo rigorous physical exercise and psychological counseling. The camp’s owner claims it helps rehabilitate youth struggling with drug abuse and disrespect toward their parents.
A Last Hope for Parents
Parents in rural communities say they are desperate for solutions as traditional methods of discipline fail. “We realized that a lot of children struggle with drug abuse and don’t respect their parents,” the camp’s owner said. “We started this camp to help them realize the importance of respect.”
One 24-year-old participant, a mother of two, admitted she was sent to the camp for smoking weed and crystal meth, as well as disrespecting her parents. “Since I was here, they taught me to respect my parents,” she said.
Traditional and Professional Approaches
The facility employs social workers and traditional healers, claiming some children need “spiritual cleansing.” The owner emphasized that the camp only accepts “rebellious, not sick” children and operates with parental consent.
However, the government has urged caution. Authorities advise parents to verify a facility’s registration with the Department of Social Development before enrolling their children. This warning comes after a tragic incident at another camp near Modjadjiskloof, where a man died from severe injuries allegedly inflicted by camp staff.
Tragedy Sparks Legal Scrutiny
Police reported that the 29-year-old victim was released from a similar camp outside Modjadjiskloof with severe injuries, allegedly caused by beatings with chains and sticks. He later died in the hospital. The camp’s owner has been charged with murder and released on bail but declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation.
While some parents see these camps as a necessary intervention, the recent death has raised urgent questions about oversight and abuse in such facilities. Authorities are urging stricter regulation to prevent further tragedies.