As South Africa enters the winter initiation season, parents, and family members in communities across the country are expressing growing concerns about the safety and well-being of young boys preparing to attend traditional initiation schools.
The concerns come as the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities launched a campaign urging communities, traditional leaders, parents, and government authorities to work together to ensure that initiates return home safely. The campaign emphasises that “every initiate has the right to return home safely” and calls for stricter monitoring of illegal initiation schools and adherence to health and safety protocols.
For many families, however, the approaching season brings feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.
In Atteridgeville, concerned mother Nandipha Fata , whose 19-year-old son is expected to attend initiation school this winter, said she supports the cultural practice but fears for her child’s safety.
“As a mother, I understand and respect our traditions, but I cannot help feeling worried. Once he leaves, I will not get to see him for a long time, and that is difficult. Every year we hear stories about initiates who become ill or do not come back home. My biggest prayer is that my son returns home safely and healthy,” she said.
She added that parents often experience emotional distress during initiation season because of the limited communication they have with their children.
“You have to trust the people responsible for your child, but as a parent, that fear never leaves you until your child walks back through your door.”
A parent in Laudium, said while she appreciates the cultural significance of initiation scdhools for many South African communities, safety must remain the top priority.
“Culture is important, but no tradition should cost a young person their life. We have seen reports over the years about illegal schools and inadequate medical care. Authorities and traditional leaders need to work together to make sure every initiation school follows the law,” she said.
She believes parents should also play a more active role in verifying whether an initiation school is registered and compliant before allowing their children to attend.
Family members other than parents are also struggling with the emotional impact of the initiation season.
A 17-year-old girl from Atteridgeville whose older brother will attend initiation school this year, said the family is already preparing for the temporary separation.
“My brother and I spend a lot of time together, so it will be strange not having him around. I know this is an important journey for him, but I am worried because you hear so many stories every year. We just want him to come back safe,” she said.
In Laudium, another young boy’s cousin who will be attending initiation school, shared similar concerns.
“We respect the tradition and understand why young men go through the process, but as family members, we also worry. You do not know what is happening while they are away, and that uncertainty can be stressful for everyone at home,” Maseko said.
According to government campaigns promoting safe initiation practices, parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure that initiation schools are legally registered and follow all health and safety regulations. Communities are also urged to report illegal initiation schools and practices that may place initiates at risk.
As thousands of young men across South Africa prepare to take part in this year’s initiation season, families say they hope cultural traditions can continue while ensuring that safety, dignity, and the well-being of initiates are still the highest priority.
“No parent should have to fear losing their child because of a cultural practice,” said a parent. “We want our sons to come back home stronger, wiser and, most importantly, alive.”
As the initiation season begins, families in communities such as Atteridgeville and Laudium are calling for commitment to protecting the lives of young initiates.
