Cape Town – Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa held an emergency meeting in the Eastern Cape on Friday following the deaths of 20 initiates at initiation schools.
The minister described the deaths as a national tragedy, emphasising the need for stricter adherence to norms under the Initiation Act to ensure the safety and dignity of this cultural practice.
“These deaths sent shockwaves across the country as confirmation of the unfortunate passing of initiates was publicised.
“We must not lose sight of the fact that these late initiates are human beings with loved ones. They also have the right to life like all of us. To this effect, it cannot be business as usual,” a statement read.
[WATCH] COGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has condemned illegal initiation schools following 27 initiate deaths this summer. Speaking to #Newzroom405 @NohiyaNtsiki , he urged parents to avoid unregistered schools and said 23 arrests had been made for illegal initiations. Hlabisa… pic.twitter.com/xwameqDhaH
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) December 27, 2024
Hlabisa visited the Amathole District Municipality, which has recorded the highest number of deaths, to meet with officials, initiation forums, and affected communities.
Acknowledging the families’ devastation, Hlabisa called for urgent collective action to safeguard the cultural tradition and prevent further loss of life.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
