Eastern Cape Summer Initiation
By Nkosana Khumalo
The summer initiation season in the Eastern Cape has commenced with a concerning number of fatalities among young initiates. As of early December 2024, at least five initiates have tragically lost their lives, with causes ranging from dehydration to incidents of violence. 
Dehydration and Septic Wounds
Reports indicate that three of the deceased initiates succumbed to dehydration, a preventable condition that underscores the need for proper care during the initiation process. Additionally, some initiates suffered from septic wounds resulting from illegal circumcisions, highlighting the dangers associated with unregulated practices.
Violent Incidents
In a particularly distressing case near Stutterheim, an initiate was burned beyond recognition in his hut, raising concerns about safety measures at initiation sites. Another initiate’s death has been attributed to lung issues, though details remain under investigation.
Official Response
The Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has expressed deep regret over the deaths. MEC Zolile Williams emphasized the importance of community involvement in ensuring the safety of initiates:
“It is quite regrettable whilst we send our deepest condolences, but we argue that these deaths should not be happening if parents and communities around these areas were serious about the safety of their children when they are in traditional initiation schools.”Williams also confirmed that cases have been opened against individuals operating illegal initiation schools, leading to the arrest of 18 traditional surgeons and their assistants. He stressed the government’s commitment to enforcing regulations related to traditional circumcision.
Historical Context
The current fatalities add to a troubling pattern observed in previous seasons. During the winter initiation period earlier this year, 14 initiates died in the province.  In the summer initiation season of 2023, the death toll reached 34, marking an increase from the previous year’s 23 deaths. 
Preventable Causes
Health professionals have identified dehydration as a leading cause of death among initiates. Some initiation practices involve denying initiates water, based on the belief that it accelerates healing from circumcision. This dangerous practice has led to severe health complications and fatalities. 
Additionally, reports have surfaced of initiates being subjected to beatings by men visiting the initiation schools, further contributing to the risk of injury and death.
Calls for Action
Traditional leaders and government officials have consistently called for stricter enforcement of regulations and greater community involvement to prevent unnecessary deaths. Nkosi Mpumalanga Gwadiso, Chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, expressed concern over the recurring fatalities:
“We still experience these deaths so far, but we are monitoring the situation very closely. I must say that we are hoping that it will not escalate, it will not go beyond what has happened thus far.”🔴Central News Weekly Edition 086🔴 Download the Latest Edition | Top Story: “Hung Council Persists in Thabazimbi as ANC Falls Short of Majority in By-Elections”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube