Tragic Death of Initiate Sparks Investigation and Calls for Enhanced Safety Protocols.
By Thulane Madalane
eMalahleni:In a profoundly disturbing turn of events, the Mpumalanga Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) has confirmed the tragic death of a young initiate from the eMalahleni area, under the guidance of Chief Mabena, the Ingoma holder. The incident has raised urgent questions regarding the safety protocols and compliance measures in place within initiation schools across the province.
According to initial reports, the initiate began complaining of severe stomach pains on Friday, (June 27), 2025. His condition deteriorated rapidly; he experienced diarrhea the next morning and was rushed to a local clinic. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his ailments upon arrival at the medical facility, raising alarm bells about the circumstances surrounding his health and the adequacy of care available to initiates.
The provincial government expressed its condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, emphasizing their commitment to investigate the incident thoroughly. “The department emphasizes that all initiation schools receive the necessary support through awareness sessions to ensure compliance with existing legal prescripts,” stated MEC Speed Mashilo. He assured the public that the authorities would work diligently to get to the bottom of this tragedy and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
As of now, Mpumalanga boasts a total of 517 initiation schools, which are split between 378 male and 139 female establishments. The Provincial Initiation Coordination Committee (PICC), along with the Ingoma Task Team and local police, have launched an investigation into the incident. They are focusing on various factors, including the school’s permit, compliance with health regulations, and other related requirements that govern initiation practices.
This tragic event is not an isolated case. Numerous incidents in the past have raised awareness regarding the safety of initiation schools in South Africa. For instance, in 2018, a series of deaths linked to initiation schools in the Eastern Cape prompted national outcry, leading to an overhaul of regulations governing these traditional rites. In one particularly harrowing case, a young initiate lost his life due to dehydration and neglect while attending an initiation camp. The government’s response included increased inspections and mandatory health checks before initiates began their journey.
Similarly, in 2019, another tragedy unfolded when two initiates died in Limpopo under suspicious circumstances. Investigations revealed that the
