Traditional practices: Unsafe initiations spark concern

The Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) has spoken out about the awareness of customary initiation and how it may lead to amputation and death.

RWCLM spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa described customary initiation as a respected cultural rite of passage marking significant transitions in life such as puberty, adulthood and marriage. However, he emphasised that the unsafe practices can put initiates at risk. As part of their Customary Initiation Awareness Campaign, Montshiwa shared some facts about initiation schools and the dangers they pose.

Montshiwa explained some key factors leading to initiation-related deaths and amputations:

• Illegal initiation in schools
These unregistered places make it difficult for authorities to locate and intervene, and the initiatives are often operated without medical support and proper facilities. Unqualified surgeons may execute surgery in unsanitary conditions.

• Lack of medical intervention
In many of these cases, death is caused by untreated infections and excessive bleeding. Delayed health care directly contributes to the death of initiates.

• Lack of community co-operation with law enforcement
Many initiates refrain from reporting cases of abuse and violence because of the stigma around the practice.

• Poor living conditions
Due to a lack of water, sanitation and shelter in many initiation rituals, victims may be exposed to critical health issues and harsh weather conditions.

• Lack of community awareness
Some communities are not fully informed about the legal requirements of initiation schools, and parents may unknowingly send their children to these schools, often lured by low costs.

• Negligence and/ or abuse
Physical abuse and neglect, such as ignoring signs of medical distress, can lead to the death of initiates. Montshiwa emphasised that some cases even include sexual assault or exploitation.