COGTA calls for safer initiation schools after 35 deaths

July 14, 2026 18

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has called on initiation schools to uphold the tradition in a manner that safeguards the dignity, health and lives of every initiate, following a rise in deaths recorded during this year’s initiation season.

At least 35 initiates have lost their lives during this year’s Winter Customary Initiation Season.

According to the department, Mpumalanga recorded the highest number of deaths at 17, followed by the Eastern Cape with seven, North West and Limpopo with four each, and Gauteng and the Free State with two each.

The department says that, as of July, 12 abductions have been reported, 58 illegal initiation schools were opened, and 42 of these have been closed.

A total 75 initiates have reportedly been hospitalised, while three assault cases and one injury have also been reported.

Minister Hlabisa says the number of incidents serves as a stark reminder that more must be done to eliminate deaths, injuries and criminal activities.

“Respect for tradition must go hand in hand with respect for the law and every initiate’s constitutional rights to life, dignity and safety. Government remains committed to working with traditional leaders, families, communities and all stakeholders to achieve zero deaths, zero injuries and zero illegal initiation schools. Every initiate deserves to return home safely and with their dignity intact. This requires all of us to play our part.”

The minister also reiterated that the safety of initiates is a shared responsibility.

“Government alone cannot eliminate these tragedies. Success depends on stronger collaboration between families, traditional leaders, communities, law enforcement agencies, healthcare professionals, municipalities, educators and all stakeholders entrusted with safeguarding this sacred cultural practice.”

He urged parents and guardians to ensure that children attend only legally registered initiation schools and to verify that traditional surgeons and traditional nurses are properly authorised.

“Parents should remain actively involved throughout the initiation process and report any suspicious or illegal activities to the relevant authorities. Parental neglect and the failure to verify the legitimacy of initiation schools place young lives at unnecessary risk.”

While illegal initiation schools continue to pose a growing challenge across the country, the minister says they undermine the integrity of customary initiation and are responsible for many of the deaths recorded during the initiation season.

“Individuals who establish, facilitate or participate in illegal initiation schools must understand that they are committing criminal offences and will face the full might of the law.

“The Customary Initiation Act provides a comprehensive legislative framework to regulate customary initiation, protect initiates and preserve the cultural integrity of the practice.”