Contralesa Condemns Forced Initiation After Elderly Man Abducted in Limpopo

The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa, known as Contralesa, has strongly condemned the forced abduction of individuals into initiation schools, describing it as a violation of cultural values and human rights.

This follows a disturbing incident in Ga-Mamatsha village, Limpopo, where a 72-year-old man was reportedly taken against his will to an initiation school.

The elderly man was abducted from his home and transported to the initiation facility without his consent. Police arrested three suspects linked to the case. They have since appeared in court and were released on bail while investigations continue.

Contralesa President Kgoshi Mathupa expressed deep outrage over the incident, emphasising that such actions tarnish a tradition meant to be grounded in respect, choice, and cultural preservation. “I am so angry that after being warned not to do this, people are still engaging in it,” said Mathupa. “Contralesa insists that the law must take its course, and we will stand with the courts to ensure these perpetrators are dealt with firmly.”

He stressed that what happened in Ga-Mamatsha is not representative of authentic cultural practice. “This is not our culture. This is abduction. It is no longer initiation — it is a criminal act,” he added.

Initiation schools in South Africa traditionally serve as rites of passage for young men transitioning into adulthood. These ceremonies are respected in many communities, especially in provinces like Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and Mpumalanga. However, increasing reports of forced initiations and unsafe practices have raised serious concerns among traditional leaders and civil society groups.

Contralesa is calling on communities to ensure that no individual is coerced into attending initiation schools. “Initiation must always be voluntary. People must willingly participate with a full understanding of what the process involves,” Mathupa said.

The council reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding cultural integrity while upholding individual rights. “We cannot allow criminal elements to misuse our traditions as a cover to violate people’s freedoms,” Mathupa said. “As traditional leaders, we must unite against such violations and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure justice is served.”

Authorities continue their investigations, and the suspects are due to appear in court again soon. Police have confirmed the elderly man is safe and receiving appropriate care.

This incident has reignited discussions around the regulation and oversight of initiation schools, particularly in rural areas where such practices remain common. Contralesa has urged for stronger monitoring and accountability to prevent further abuses.

As South Africa seeks to respect cultural traditions while protecting individual rights, traditional leaders emphasise that education and lawful conduct must go hand in hand.