EC COGTA says dehydration the leading cause of death this initiation season

CAPE TOWN - The Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Department says it's deeply concerned about the death of initiates in that province.

At least 17 boys have died since the start of the summer initiation season.

Parents are urged to ensure their children go to registered and licensed initiation schools.

READ: National Men's Forum calls for stricter laws to regulate initiation schools

The department's Pheello Oliphant: "The leading cause of the death of initiates this year is dehydration, pulmonary oedema, chest pains, hallucinations, lack of screening, but above all the most dominant problem is dehydration - deprivation of water."