While thousands of families are ululating and dancing in celebration at the homecoming of their sons from initiation schools, at least 15 families are mourning the loss of theirs.
Some died only days before they were to graduate from their initiation school and homecoming preparations were already in full swing, with new clothes and groceries purchased.
More than 15000 young men underwent the traditional rite, including the sons of AmaMpondo senior royal Prince Mlamli Ndamase, South African Airways CEO Vuyani Jarana, veteran government official and political activist Masiza Mazizi and Cofimvaba businesswoman Colina Sakawuli.
The Eastern Cape’s initiate death toll stood at 12 at the beginning of the week. However, by yesterday it rose to 15.
Cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) provincial spokesman Mamnkeli Ngam and his health counterpart Sizwe Kupelo confirmed the deaths.
Kupelo posted on his Facebook page on Tuesday afternoon: “Circumcision death toll is now 15 following the death of an initiate from septic penis and another who died at Mthatha Regional Hospital.
“We urge parents and the boys not to wait for too long before seeking medical help. These deaths are unnecessary.
“ 13th circumcision death reported from the Alfred Nzo district. The 17-year-old initiate had bruises on his chest and back with nose bleeding. These suggest that he may have been beaten to death and police should investigate murder.”
Of the 15 that have died, nine are from the OR Tambo district – an increase from the four that died during last year’s summer initiation season.
Chris Hani district, which has been notorious for deaths in summer, has so far recorded only one death. The 18-year-old initiate from Intsika Yethu collapsed and died after complaining about being dizzy.
Cogta MEC Fikile Xasa and the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders chairman Nkosi Mwelo Nonkonyana are expected to address the media in Mthatha today about the summer initiation season. —
lulamilef@dispatch.co.za