REPORTER
MINISTER of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Velenkosini Hlabisa emphasised the government’s commitment to continued coordination, daily monitoring, and decisive action until the close of the summer initiation season, while preparations begin for the upcoming winter season.
He was speaking at high-level engagement on the death toll of initiates during the summer initiation season.
At least 48 initiates lost their lives, with the Eastern Cape and Free State recording the highest number of fatalities.
The Eastern Cape reported a high volume of late pre-screenings, particularly in the Amathole district, Buffalo City Metro, Chris Hani district and OR Tambo district.
The Nyandeni Local Municipality was identified as a key area of concern.
The identified districts will continue to intensify monitoring until the end of January with provincial departments and municipalities providing additional resources.
Rescue interventions will be implemented where illegal initiation schools are detected, and the provincial initiation forum has committed to closing such schools and accommodating rescued initiates at designated rescue centres.
