Nine initiates die in Eastern Cape during summer initiation season

Nine young initiates have died in the Eastern Cape since the start of the summer initiation season, authorities said, amid reports of difficult conditions at initiation schools. Survivors described hunger, extreme physical exertion, and threats from armed criminals targeting boys carrying supplies to the camps.

Initiation, or ulwaluko in Xhosa tradition, marks the transition from boyhood to manhood. Boys leave home for several weeks to undergo traditional rites intended to teach cultural values. Survivors this season reported going without sufficient food while attending camps in rural areas, and said some boys were exposed to criminal activity when transporting provisions.

The Kwanobuhle Initiation Task Team, a group made up of traditional leaders, health officials, the South African Police Service SAPS, religious leaders, and taxi industry representatives, visited multiple hotspot areas to assess conditions at initiation sites. Authorities said the task team is coordinating monitoring efforts and providing support to ensure safety during the season.

Police confirmed that 24 suspects had been arrested in connection with the deaths of initiates. Reports indicated that armed groups have targeted boys transporting food and water to camps, sometimes at gunpoint, contributing to the risk of injury and death.

Data from previous years show that initiation-related deaths have occurred regularly in the Eastern Cape. Between 2016 and 2024, authorities recorded 371 deaths and 110 cases of penile amputations linked to initiation schools. Causes included dehydration, infections, and assault. Investigations have previously highlighted incidents in illegal or unsupervised schools.

Authorities said that this year’s season has presented similar challenges. Health officials and community monitors have been deployed to provide oversight and support, including access to medical attention and safe transport for supplies. Families were encouraged to report unsafe conditions to local authorities and traditional leaders.

Survivors gave accounts of hunger and threats at camps. One boy who completed the rites said he had to carry food through areas where armed robbery was common. Another reported that some initiates were without adequate medical attention when ill. Authorities did not confirm the ages of the boys involved in these incidents.

The task team continues to visit camps and monitor initiation sites across the province. Police said investigations are ongoing, and more arrests may follow as authorities gather additional information. Health officials are also conducting medical checks at camps and providing guidance to traditional leaders on safety protocols.

Initiation remains an important cultural practice in the Eastern Cape. Authorities emphasized that measures are being taken to reduce risks during the summer season. Monitoring efforts are focused on ensuring access to food and water, medical care, and protection from criminal activity while boys participate in traditional rites.

Families and communities continue to follow the initiation season closely. Authorities said they are working with local leaders to improve reporting mechanisms and to ensure that camps operate under conditions that comply with safety and health standards.