Amahlubi celebrate safe initiation season amid national death toll

FILE: Initiates in a field in the Eastern Cape.

The Amahlubi clan is beaming with joy and pride as it recorded an incident free summer initiation season.

Their successful campaign took place against the backdrop of 41 initiate deaths across the country with the Eastern Cape accounting for 22 of these deaths.

The clan observed this milestone through a traditional welcoming ceremony known as umgidi.

One proud parent, Bongiwe Mnqokoyi says she hopes her child will be a good example to society.

“It was strenuous, it was stressful and l had anxiety. However, because l was doing it for the second time with the same team using the same traditional nurses, l had a bit of faith in them. Remember the first time l couldn’t talk to my son l couldn’t hear his voice but l am grateful he is alive and back home.”

WATCH | At least 22 young men have died in the Eastern Cape during this year’s summer initiation season. Today, the Hlubi clan welcomes their graduates. SABC News Reporter Abongile Jantjies has the details. pic.twitter.com/zLWIU43Q27

— SABC News (@SABCNews) January 3, 2026