Government aims for zero deaths in upcoming winter initiation season

AS SOUTH Africa enters the traditional winter initiation season, the government is setting an ambitious target: zero deaths among initiates. This comes after a tragic season last year, when at least 93 young boys lost their lives during cultural initiation rites across the country.

- SIFISO MAHLANGU

On Friday, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa officially launched the 2025 Winter Initiation Season, emphasising that the safety and dignity of initiates must be the top priority.

Speaking at the launch event, Minister Hlabisa acknowledged the challenges ahead but stressed that every life must be protected.

"We cannot accept any more deaths. We owe it to these young men and their families to ensure their journey into adulthood is safe, dignified, and respected," he said.

The winter season, which typically sees a spike in the number of initiation ceremonies - especially in provinces like the Eastern Cape and Limpopo - has often been marred by incidents of dehydration, sepsis, physical abuse, and, in some cases, illegal schools operating without proper oversight.