By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Eastern Cape, Traditional Affairs Department, has confirmed that at least 30 Eastern Cape initiates have died during the summer initiation season so far.
The OR Tambo region, a usual hotspot in the province, had the highest number of deaths with ten.
MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Zolile Williams and the Deputy Chairperson, emphasized the involvement of parents and traditional nurses to safeguard the initiates since the death toll had risen to 30 and there are still three weeks to go before the Summer Initiation season closes.
“These are our foot soldiers whose dedication to the cause of culture, custom and tradition remains our never-ending source of encouragement and dedication to Ulwaluko.
“We will scrutinise the Report of the Strategic Summit on Customary Male Initiation and formulate a solid and implementable plan for the winter season and beyond,” said Williams.
Williams furthermore said it has come to his attention that there are already deaths of initiates caused by different reasons but shockingly with some having been shot at by unknown gunmen and others raped.
He added that these are unnecessary deaths that should not have happened in the first place if parents, guardians, and families played their active roles to secure the future of their children.
According to Williams, some parents are working with the government. However, they need to do more to mitigate risks associated with the custom.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and their next of kin.
“We encourage parents, guardians and families to visit Amabhuma and initiation schools every day. Where there is suspicion of foul play, we encourage them to open criminal cases against those entrusted with the care of their children,” said Williams.
Nkosi Mpumalanga Gwadiso, chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders and Khoi San, extended his condolences to those who have passed on during this season and urged parents to take charge of ulwaluko (traditional initiation), a practice centred at home.
He also called on communities to be vigilant and report illegal initiation schools.
He described the situation as sad and unnecessary, stating that “traditional initiation does not kill”.
Gwadiso called on urban and rural communities to alert the nearest police station to abuse and illegal amabhoma initiation schools or call 08600 10111.