19-year-old initiate died in Sekhukhune

A 19-year-old initiate, Raymond Sekele, died at Philadelphia Hospital, Sekhukhune District in Limpopo on Sunday after experiencing health challenges while at an initiation school at Dennilton Uitspanning B [Magakadimeng].

Sekele reportedly experienced an epileptic episode where he collapsed on 02 July 2025. He was attended to at the initiation school.

ALSO READ: Initiation elders arrested for damaging house in Limpopo

He recovered fully later the same day and resumed normal school activities without any further complaints. The school was later advised to urgently take the initiate to the hospital where he could meet the Doctor for additional checks.

He was admitted for emergency treatment at the Hospital but unfortunately passed away. His family also confirmed that the initiate had a history of epilepsy and was on medication when admitted to the initiation school.

ALSO READ: Sekhukhune District employees in court for fraud

The MEC for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Basikopo Makamu, has expressed sadness at the incident.

“I got a report that an initiate failed to wake up with the other initiates on Sunday,” said Makamu.

“However, it was not considered unusual as he was known to sleep longer than others. At around 08h00, the caregiver checked on him and found that he was unresponsive and had weak breathing.

“We are indeed deeply saddened by this death. One death is one too many. Working closely with the Department of Health, Education, the SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority, we have put all systems in place to ensure that no life is lost,” he added.

“However, this death is a confirmation that we need to work even harder to avert fatalities during initiation season. We extended our heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult period.”

The initiation school in the Sekhukhune District Municipality operates under the permit of Kgoshigadi Mathebe Morongwe Cathrine.