An initiation school is not only a significant milestone in the journey to manhood but also a revered cultural tradition that has existed for many years. The Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, launched the Winter Customary Initiation Season Campaign in Bloemfontein at the Premier’s Auditorium.
This sacred cultural practice, which marks an essential transition into adulthood, has faced challenges in the past due to unregulated initiation schools. These issues led to tragic incidents, including the deaths of initiates.
As a response, the government enacted the Customary Initiation Act of 2021 to ensure safer practices. During his address, Minister Hlabisa highlighted the campaign’s significance, stating that it is conducted under the theme “Mabaye Bephila, Babuye Bephila,” which translates to “let them go alive and return alive.”
He emphasized the message of achieving zero deaths during this winter’s initiation season.
“As we all know, this practice has shaped the identity, values, and responsibilities of young men within our communities for generations,” Hlabisa remarked.
“It marks the transition to adulthood and, when conducted correctly, instills discipline, respect, and social awareness. As leaders, custodians, and facilitators of this heritage, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding and protecting the dignity of this practice.” As the winter initiation season begins, various provinces are preparing to host initiation schools, with readiness preparations already well underway.
Key aspects of this readiness include:
- Verification and registration of legal initiation schools
- Health pre-screening for prospective initiates
- Training and vetting of traditional doctors and caregivers
- Deployment of rapid response teams and monitoring officials
- Strengthened health protocols to prevent dehydration, sepsis, and hypothermia.
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