Act to keep initiates safe
It is that time yet again where young men are expected to undergo customary male initiation with the early commencement of the summer season initiation period. The early endorsement is said to accommodate young boys who are out of school, thus avoiding an inrush of initiates. This is a great cause for celebration for many families whose boys are to transition from boyhood to manhood. One can only hope these boys who will now take on immense adult responsibility will make a safe return and emerge healthy.
The Chris Hani district reportedly recorded zero deaths in the last winter season, but concerns have been brought forth by the initiation forums in the district. Climate conditions and large numbers of initiates who hail from other districts and provinces are foreseen as a challenge. This is a time where everyone in society needs to play a role to guarantee the safe passage of boys to manhood. Parents, teachers, the health department, community and traditional leaders all need to play a part to tackle any threatening circumstances in the customary practice. The pain of having to bury your child for undergoing the rite of passage is unacceptable.
The excitement and ululation cannot turn into mourning.
The Rep took to the streets of Komani this week to ask locals what can be done to ensure initiates return alive. Most community members stressed the importance of thorough medical examinations and screenings, and the deployment of welltrained and experienced traditional surgeons and nurses. Government continues to make strides in ensuring these youngsters experience a safe process. Over the years, as we all know, the initiation practice in the Eastern Cape has shown an intolerable death toll. According to a statement issued by the parliamentary communication services, 40 boys had died during the December 2021 summer initiation season. The portfolio committee was set to assess the measures in place to prevent these deaths.
Are there enough educational awareness programmes to address pertinent issues around the ritual? Do we need to strictly monitor the disregarding of rules? What punishment is there to those found responsible or involved? Are initiation sites visited regularly? Are necessary steps taken to guarantee compliance? These are some of the questions that require answers.