The Eastern Cape Traditional Affairs Department says the deaths of eight initiates since the start of the summer initiation season could have been avoided. It says six of the initiates died of dehydration. Their wounds had also become septic after being illegally circumcised. One was burnt beyond recognition in his hut in Stutterheim and another died of lung complications. MEC Zolile Williams says the situation is worrying.
The Eastern Cape Traditional Affairs Department says the deaths of eight initiates since the start of the summer initiation season could have been avoided.
It says six of the initiates died of dehydration.
Their wounds had also become septic after being illegally circumcised.
One was burnt beyond recognition in his hut in Stutterheim and another died of lung complications.
MEC Zolile Williams says the situation is worrying.
“It’s quite regrettable whilst we send our deepest condolences, but we argue that these deaths should not be happening if parents and communities around these areas were serious about the safety of their children when they are in traditional initiation schools.”
Original Story by www.sabcnews.com
