36 initiation-related deaths recorded this summer, says COGTA

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs said that there have been 36 initiation-related deaths across the country this summer.

Twenty fatalities have been recorded in the Eastern Cape, 13 in Free State, two in Gauteng and one in the North West.

The department said a majority of these deaths have been caused by poor hygienic practices, dehydration and negligence.

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

Part of the coming-of-age initiation process for young boys includes circumcision and being away from home for a period of time in camps usually located in secluded areas.

Department spokesperson Pearl Maseko-Binqose said a high-level meeting was convened on Tuesday to discuss these issues.

“The engagement underscored the urgent need for decisive action to protect initiates, clamp down on illegal initiation schools and strengthen co-ordination among all role players. 

“A follow-up meeting will be convened next weekend to assess provincial reports, whilst the national initiation meeting involving all stakeholders is scheduled for February 2026 to develop concrete long-term solutions.”