Limpopo MEC for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Basikopo Makamu has expressed sadness following the death of a 19-year-old initiate during the 2025 winter initiation season.

Polokwane Review reports the deceased, Raymond Sekele, died at Philadelphia Hospital on Sunday after being admitted with health complications from an initiation school in Dennilton Uitspanning B (Magakadimeng) in the Sekhukhune District.

The MEC’s spokesperson, Amos Phago, says Sekele’s caregiver confirmed he had a history of epilepsy and was receiving medical treatment for the condition at the time of his admission to the legal initiation school.

Phago also confirmed the school is registered under the permit of Kgoshigadi Mathebe Morongwe Cathrine.

“Sekele reportedly suffered an epileptic episode on July 2, during which he collapsed. He was treated at the school and later resumed normal activities after appearing to recover,” a statement reads.

Makamu says he was informed the initiate failed to wake up with the others on Sunday.

“As he was known to sleep longer than most, it wasn’t considered unusual at first. But around 08:00, his caregiver found him unresponsive and struggling to breathe. The school’s assigned doctor and the initiate’s guardian were immediately informed, and he was rushed to hospital for further treatment. Sadly, the family was later notified of his passing,” Phago explains.

Makamu adds that while government has implemented several measures to prevent fatalities during initiation, ‘one death is one too many’.

“This tragic incident reminds us that more must be done to ensure the safety and well-being of all initiates,” he says.

What are initiation schools?

Initiation schools are traditional rites of passage that mark the transition from boyhood to manhood in many African cultures.

Held in secluded areas such as the bush or mountains, these schools guide young males through a transformative period where they are prepared for adult responsibilities.

The process often includes cultural teachings, moral instruction and, in some cases, physical rites such as circumcision.

The duration and practices vary by culture, with initiation periods ranging from several weeks to a few months.

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