<a href="https://absafricatv.com/deputy-minister-calls-for-stronger-action-against-illegal-fishing-trade-law/” title=”Deputy Minister Calls for Stronger Action Against Illegal Fishing Trade | Law”>Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa has condemned illegal initiation schools.
He added that such schools undermine the integrity of the customary practice by committing criminal acts.
At least 180 initiates have been rescued from bogus initiation schools, while 75 others have been hospitalised since the winter customary initiation season began.
18 minors rescued from bogus initiation school
North West COGTA calls for safe winter initiation season
CoGTA announces stricter measures after 41 initiation deaths
During this season, young boys participate in a cultural practice that facilitates their transition to adulthood.
Thirty-five boys have died, while 12 abductions have been reported during 2026’s initiation season.
Every winter season, young men embark on a rite of passage to manhood through traditional initiations, which include, among others, ritual circumcision.
However, there have been reports of bogus initiation schools subjecting young men to harsh conditions, which include abuse, kidnappings, injuries and fatalities.
According to a preliminary report by the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC), 58 illegal initiation schools were opened, but 42 of them have since been closed in 2026.
The report further states that 150 criminal cases were opened, resulting in the arrests of 40 people.
The PICC said three assault cases have also been opened, with one injury reported.
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) is urging parents to enrol their children in initiation schools that are legally registered with authorised healthcare practitioners.
Hlabisa has called for the tradition to be practised in a dignified manner that protects the health and lives of every initiate.
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