17 initiates die in Eastern Cape
Seventeen individuals undergoing initiation have died in the O.R. Tambo District of the Eastern Cape during this initiation season, raising significant concerns regarding the safety of these practices in the region.
The fatalities are attributed to six illegal initiation schools in operation, with factors such as dehydration, negligence, and an alleged assault being reported as contributors to these tragic events.
The recent loss of life has led to renewed calls for collaboration among parents, community members, and officials to avert further tragedies, particularly as the initiation season continues.
Officials have emphasized the need for enhanced monitoring and community engagement to effectively shut down illegal initiation schools.
Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, the Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, plans to visit the district to evaluate conditions at initiation schools and consult with traditional leaders, practitioners, law enforcement, and local government regarding necessary actions.
While addressing eNCA, Burns-Ncamashe noted that the deaths “highlight the severity of the crisis” afflicting the province during initiation times.
He referenced the past support of the Right to Care NGO in promoting safer practices within this sector, mentioning that the organization’s efforts have diminished due to the withdrawal of PEPFAR funding that was essential for its operations.
Authorities remain hopeful that increased oversight and collaboration can prevent more families from facing similar heartache in the near future.
WATCH | About 13 initiates have died in the OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape, during the current initiation season. Nkululeko Nyembezi reports. pic.twitter.com/OMAMmSEfVM
— SABC News (@SABCNews) December 18, 2025
