UDM calls on COGTA to act urgently and shut down illegal EC initiation schools
This came amid reports of over 20 deaths resulting from the isiXhosa rite of passage to manhood during the initiation season.
A picture taken on 20 November 2009 of young boys from the Xhosa tribe attending a traditional initiation school in Libode, Eastern Cape. Picture: AFP
JOHANNESBURG - The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has called the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) to take urgent action and shut down illegal initiation schools in Eastern Cape.
This came amid reports of over 20 deaths resulting from the isiXhosa rite of passage to manhood during the initiation season.
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The party has called for a multi-sectoral approach to address the problem.
What was intended to be a sacred rite of passage has had tragic outcomes for many in the Eastern Cape.
In an attempt to preserve the cultural tradition, the UDM has called on COGTA to act urgently.
While there are claims of youngsters being forcibly taken to initiation schools, the UDM said communities must inspect the areas to ensure they are safe and legitimate.
It has also called for the provincial Department of Health to ensure the availability of adequate healthcare facilities and for law enforcement agencies to act against those found to be running illegal facilities.
COGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, meanwhile, visited the province and threatened to shut down some schools if the deaths continued.
Over 250 children have died at the institutions in the past six years.
With the 2025 initiation season, it is anticipated that more families will be forced to bury their children instead of welcoming them home.