Early Warning Signs: Minister Demands ‘Urgent Intervention’ After Five EC Initiation Deaths

Five initiates have lost their lives in the Eastern Cape this summer season.

The region’s that recorded the number of deaths are Chris Hani district with two, OR Tambo district with two and Buffalo City recorded one death.

The season runs from late November through to the end of January 2026 and already, hundreds of young initiates have stepped into this sacred passage, embarking on a journey they hope will return them home transformed, grounded, and prepared to carry the responsibilities of young manhood

Minister is Seriously concerned

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Velenkosini Hlabisa, has raised serious concern about the initiates deaths in the province.

Despite the ongoing appeals for vigilance and full compliance with the Customary Initiation Act, the Eastern Cape has already recorded five tragic deaths.

Hlabisa said this was a stark and painful reminder of the work that still lies ahead.

The situation could deepen into a rapid dangerous crisis

Hlabisa cautioned that if these early warning signs are not met with unwavering resolve and urgent intervention, the situation could deepen into a rapid and dangerous crisis, one that could claim even more precious lives.

He has also issued a direct message to all illegal operators.

“Shut down immediately. Illegal initiation schools are criminal, unsafe, and deadly. Government will not tolerate the reckless endangerment of children.

21 Arrests linked to illegal initiation activities

“It is commendable that the Eastern Cape has already made 21 arrests linked to illegal initiation activities. This must continue, and other provinces must show the same level of resolve,” Hlabisa said.

He said parents, caregivers, and communities must step up and take full responsibility in protecting the young initiates entrusted to their care.

“Initiation is more than a cultural tradition, it is a collective duty that demands vigilance, care, and active participation from everyone,” he said.

Consistent guidance and support

He urged communities, including households without male figures who can monitor initiates regularly, to provide consistent guidance, support, and protection throughout this sacred journey.

Hlabisa emphisized that South Africa cannot allow a repeat of previous seasons marked by multiple tragedies.

“The government’s stance is clear and uncompromising: One life lost is one too many. Mabaye bephila, babuya bephila. Every initiate must be guaranteed a safe return home, transformed, and prepared to embrace the responsibilities of manhood,” said Hlabisa.

Hlabisa called on the National Initiation Oversight Committee and all Provincial Initiation Oversight Committees (PIOC) to intensify their oversight and coordination efforts.

Negligence and inaction cannot be tolerated

“These committees must lead comprehensive multi-sectoral teams, including municipalities, the Departments of Health, Social Development, and Education, the South African Police Service, community elders, and NGOs to monitor, guide, and intervene where risks arise. Negligence or inaction cannot be tolerated,” he said.

He said his warning is unambiguous: the safety and wellbeing of initiates is a sacred responsibility.

“Families, communities, and authorities alike must act decisively to ensure that every young man emerges from initiation alive, protected, and honored. Unannounced inspections of initiation schools, particularly in high-risk areas, will be part of a rigorous crackdown on unsafe practices and non-compliance,” said Hlabisa.

Remain vigilant and engaged

He called on all South Africans to remain vigilant, engaged, and proactive.

“The lives of our children are priceless. We cannot claim to uphold culture while allowing preventable tragedies to occur. This season must not spiral into a crisis,” Hlabisa warned.

“We possess both the power and the responsibility to alter its course and we must act decisively,” he added.

He said where required, Hlabisa will visit affected provinces and municipalities to support local interventions and oversight efforts.