A second initiate dies in Limpopo
A 12-year-old initiate succumbed to injuries following a devastating fire that broke out at an initiation school in Bodweni Village, Limpopo, last week.
The fire erupted during the evening of Tuesday, 2 July and quickly spread through the camp’s structures.
Six initiates and a traditional surgeon who were injured were rushed to Dr CN Phatudi Hospital for emergency treatment.
The 12-year-old, who was the most critically injured, was later transferred to a specialised facility in Gauteng due to the severity of his burns. He unfortunately succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, 09 July 2025.
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The first incident involves a 19-year-old initiate from Sekhukhune, who experienced severe complications and sadly passed away on Sunday, 06 July 2025, at a local hospital.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has expressed profound shock and deep sorrow at the tragic news.
“When we received news of these tragic deaths, we were overcome by grief and compassion,” said Dr Ramathuba.
“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.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all initiates attending these schools are protected and safe. We call upon all individuals entrusted with the oversight of these young men to exercise utmost vigilance,” she said.
ALSO READ: Initiation elders arrested for damaging house in Limpopo
“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.”
The Premier has directed that the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) will lead a formal investigation in collaboration with the Department of Health to provide a comprehensive report on both incidents.
