By Alicia Mmashakana
Limpopo premier Phophi Ramathuba expressed heartbreak following the deaths of two initiates, who lost their lives during the provinces 2025 winter initiation season.
A 19-year-old initiate from Sekhukhune suffered severe complications and died on Sunday after being rushed to hospital.
In a separate incident, a 12-year-old boy from Mopani district succumbed to burn injuries on Tuesday after a fire broke out at his initiation camp. The child was transferred between hospitals in Mopani and Gauteng to try save his life.
“When we received news of these tragic deaths, we were overcome by grief and compassion; it is heart breaking that such promising young lives have been cut short. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the departed; this is not how we would have wanted to gather as families, during such difficult times of mourning,” Ramathuba said on Wednesday.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all initiates attending these schools are protected and safe.”
She called on those in charge of the schools to take full responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of all initiates. The premier warned that the deaths would be investigated and a full report was expected to reveal the causes and recommend preventative measures.
While the government was committed to honouring and preserving rich traditions and customs, it was equally bound by the obligation to protect lives.
“We call upon all individuals entrusted with the oversight of these young men to exercise utmost vigilance. Whether you are a principal of the initiation school, a traditional surgeon, or a senior traditional leader, you must recognise that the lives of these initiates are in your hands. We cannot allow the loss of life to occur under the banner of tradition.”
Limpopo has historically recorded low fatalities during the winter initiation season.
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