The Eastern Cape Health Department says it is concerned about the rising deaths of initiates. Three initiates have died on Friday in Mthatha, Lusikisiki and Ginsberg outside King William’s Town.
The death toll has now risen to eleven since the summer initiation season started. Health spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo says dehydration, asthma attacks and botched circumcisions are amongst the causes of these deaths.
“The department urges all those who are responsible for initiation schools as well those who have the responsibility to look after the initiates to do the right thing. They have to put a stop to this. We are very worried about the continuing number of the initiates who die in the bush. As government working with all those involved are going to do everything in our power to put a stop to what is happening it is really worrying.”
