Eastern Cape – The death toll in the Eastern Cape's summer initiation season has tragically risen to 20, according to Provincial Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Zolile Williams. Williams announced the figures at a media briefing in Beacon Bay on Monday.
Since the start of the season on November 14th, 20 initiates have died, with the OR Tambo district reporting the highest number of fatalities (7), followed by the Amathole district (5).
The primary causes of death were identified as dehydration, natural causes, and negligence.
MEC Williams highlighted that of the 20 deceased initiates, 13 had undergone legal circumcisions, while 7 were illegally circumcised.
"On behalf of the government, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the families of the boys who lost their lives," said Williams. "We bemoan the untimely death of these boys, especially at the hands of those who had to guide them through one of the most sacred journeys of their lives."
The government has stated its commitment to enforcing the Customary Initiation Act and the Eastern Cape Customary Male Initiation Practise Act. Provincial government officials will continue to conduct visits to initiation camps throughout the province to advocate for and ensure full compliance with these regulations.
Follow Us on Twitter
