Eastern Cape records rise in initiation deaths as authorities crack down on illegal schools

The Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has urged communities, parents and traditional leaders to work together to curb initiation-related deaths during the 2026 winter initiation season.

In a statement the department said that fatalities have continued to rise since the start of the winter initiation season on 8 June 2026.

While most of the deaths remain under investigation, authorities say some recent cases have been linked to dehydration and initiates failing to take chronic medication due to stigma.

The department has stepped up enforcement efforts, leading to 22 arrests and the closure of 10 illegal initiation schools.

MEC Zolile Williams extended his condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to protecting initiates while preserving the cultural significance of traditional initiation.

"The loss of every initiate is one too many. We remain committed to working with traditional leaders, law enforcement and communities to ensure every initiate returns home safely," Williams said.

The department has strengthened its safe initiation programme through the registration of initiation schools, traditional surgeons and initiates. It is also continuing awareness campaigns that encourage medical screening before initiation and the use of chronic medication where necessary.

Parents have been urged to ensure initiates undergo medical screening before attending initiation schools, while communities are encouraged to report illegal initiation schools and any suspicious activities to authorities.

CoGTA also reminded initiates to stay hydrated, take prescribed medication and seek support from caregivers, stressing that protecting lives remains a shared responsibility.