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Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe is conducting oversight visits in Umzimvubu Local Municipality.
The visit focuses on the summer initiation season. It includes engagements with the Umzimvubu Local Municipality Initiation Forum.
The Deputy Minister is accompanied by the Speakers of Umzimvubu Local Municipality and the Alfred Nzo District Municipality. Senior managers from the Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs are also part of the delegation.
Positive Report From Initiation Forum
During the engagement, the Alfred Nzo Initiation Forum presented a report. The report outlined key issues linked to the current initiation season.
Importantly, the forum confirmed that no deaths have been recorded in Umzimvubu so far. Community leaders welcomed the report. As a result, the area remains stable during the ongoing season.
Visits to Initiation Schools
The Deputy Minister is expected to visit several initiation schools within Umzimvubu. These visits aim to assess conditions on the ground.
Meanwhile, Burns-Ncamashe delivered a strong message on safety. He encouraged all stakeholders to protect initiates and respect cultural practices.
He also thanked traditional leaders, parents, and communities for their continued support.
“The message is clear: Mabaye bephila babuye bephila,” he said.
Call for Continued Cooperation
The Deputy Minister urged collaboration between government, traditional leaders, and communities. He said shared responsibility remains key to a safe initiation season. Authorities will continue monitoring initiation schools across the district.
