COGTA criticises ‘illegal’ initiation schools as summer death toll climbs

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has criticised “illegal” initiation schools as the death toll for this summer period climbs to 18.

Since the end of the school calendar, young boys from the Eastern Cape have been undergoing traditional coming-of-age initiation practices.

Part of the initiation process includes circumcision and being away from their families for a period of time in camps, usually located in secluded areas atop mountains.

The Eastern Cape government said that negligence and dehydration are some of the major causes of initiation deaths.

Meanwhile, COGTA spokesperson Maseko-Binqose has called on traditional leaders to work with government to close down illegal initiation schools.

“These tragic deaths are not caused by culture but illegal initiation schools, unqualified practitioners, neglect, dehydration and abuse among other things. The minister extends his heartfelt condolences to the families and communities who have lost their loved ones during this period of mourning and pain.”