Summer initiation death toll rises to 41 countrywide

FILE | Initiates undergo a sacred cultural practice which marks the transition to adulthood

The summer initiation season is nearing its end and again it is accompanied by deaths.

The total number of initiates who have lost their lives now stands at 41 countrywide.

The Eastern Cape recorded 22 deaths, the Free State 15, Gauteng three and one death in the Western Cape.

More than 31 000 initiates have or is still to complete the traditional rite of passage to manhood in this summer season.

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) spokesperson Pearl Maseko-Binqose says stricter rules are envisaged for the coming season.

Maseko-Binqose says, ” Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has indeed announced stricter measures to prevent further deaths during customary initiation seasons following the tragic loss of 41 initiates and 41 arrests linked to initiation offenses.”

She adds, “Measures include compulsory training and registration of traditional surgeons, and enforcement of parental accountability from Winter 2026. Parents must sign legal consent forms confirming initiates are at least 16-years-old, with false declarations treated as a criminal offense. The minister stressed that while initiation is a respected cultural practice, it must never endanger life.”