Eastern Cape Traditional leaders express alarm over rising initiate deaths this winter

The Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders has expressed alarm over rising initiate deaths during the winter initiation season, with 14 deaths reported in the province. Nationally, the death toll has reached 43, according to a preliminary report by Cogta. Deaths are attributed to dehydration, septicaemia, assaults, and neglect, with illegal initiation schools identified as a major factor. Authorities have closed 42 illegal schools, arrested 40 individuals, and opened 150 criminal cases.