THE 2025 initiation season in Limpopo has been marred by tragedy, with two reported deaths.
A 12-year-old initiate passed away from injuries sustained in a fire accident at an initiation school in Ha-Maake, Mopani district.
Raymond Sekele (19) succumbed to an epileptic episode at Philadelphia Hospital in the Sekhukhune district.
The deaths were reported on 6 and 8 July 2025.
Izangoma in the province have raised concerns about the effectiveness of traditional rituals performed to protect initiates, with some questioning the qualifications and motivations of initiation school leaders.
Gogo Helen Mamokele said the 2025 initiation season won't be a success due to traditionally unqualified initiators seeking financial gain.
"Some of these initiators are not the chosen ones to lead initiation schools. They are only after money," she said.
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She also warned that not all initiates would return home safely, citing potential deaths during and after the initiation season.
"The number will not be high, but not all of them will make it home."
Meanwhile, Ngaka Reggie Tsiane highlighted a serious concern, noting that while some initiates may arrive at initiation schools with pre-existing health conditions, the primary issue lies in too much political interference.
"Our main problem is too much interference by politicians and the government when they don't know much about our customs, which is going to cause problems tomorrow for the boys even after completing the season," he said.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba expressed shock and grief over the incidents, emphasising the need for initiation schools to prioritise the safety and well-being of initiates.
"We cannot allow the loss of life to occur under the banner of tradition," she said.
