The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, is set to lead an emergency ministerial meeting in the Eastern Cape on December 27, 2024, following the tragic deaths of 20 initiates across various initiation schools in the province.
The deaths, which have sent shockwaves across South Africa, highlight a crisis in the centuries-old cultural practice of ulwaluko, a traditional rite of passage marking the transition from boyhood to manhood in Xhosa culture.
“These initiates were sons, brothers, and loved ones who had the right to life like all of us,” Minister Hlabisa stated. “We value life, and it cannot be business as usual. Drastic measures must be taken to ensure this practice is performed safely and with dignity.”
The emergency visit will include consultations with key stakeholders such as the provincial and local government, district initiation forums, provincial initiation committees, and affected communities. The Amathole District Municipality, which has experienced the highest number of deaths, will serve as the focal point of the Minister’s visit.
Minister Hlabisa emphasized that the crisis stems not from the cultural practice itself but from the failure to adhere to regulations outlined in the Initiation Act. “Culture does not kill. Those who disregard norms and standards damage the reputation of this sacred tradition,” he said.
The Minister called on communities to unite to protect and preserve this cultural heritage, ensuring it is free from abuse and exploitation.
The meeting will take place at Mnquma Municipality in at 8:30 AM. The outcomes are expected to shape urgent interventions to prevent further loss of life and restore public trust in this time-honored practice.
Background on Ulwaluko
Ulwaluko has been practiced for generations to instill moral values and produce responsible men in society. However, recent years have seen an increase in fatalities due to unsafe practices, exploitation, and non-compliance with legal frameworks.
The government and traditional leaders now face the challenge of balancing cultural preservation with the safety and rights of initiates, ensuring the practice can continue without the devastating loss of young lives.
For families and communities, the deaths are a national tragedy, and Minister Hlabisa’s visit underscores the urgency of finding a solution. “We must stop at nothing to protect the youth undertaking this vital cultural journey,” he said.
