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Calls for initiation schools to comply with regulations
The South African Religious and Traditional Healers Organisation (SARTHO)’s initiation schools committee recently held an engagement in Tubatse to ensure compliance among its members operating initiation schools.
General Secretary Mamokwa Hlabirwa Walker said the session sought to strengthen compliance with the set requirements to avoid the recurrence of incidents that were experienced in the previous winter initiation period.
Walker cited that the some of the initiation schools faced closure due to non-compliance with the Initiation Act.
National Chairperson Dr Ratholo Phaahlane said they have seen initiates been dragged by police and initiation schools burned down because of lack of compliance by the operators.
Phaahlane also highlighted the challenges of fraud adding to the problem. “We believe we will not experience those challenges this season. SARTHO will report any initiation school found to be operating illegally or using a copy of a permit issued to another. We have a responsibility towards our communities and we have to be compliant to guarantee the safety of initiates,” Phaahlane said.
Leboeng Regional Coordinator Mapogo Jabulane Molomane said they have consulted with the principals of initiation schools in an effort to address the challenges, stressing the significance of following the guidelines as set by the authorities.
He indicated that non-compliance does not only affect initiates but leaves a dark stain on custom and cultural practices.
“We believe the authorities have taken relevant measures to prevent incidents of last season,” Molomane said.
Parents were urged to ensure that the initiation schools they will be taking their children to are compliant and legal.
Meanwhile, the Limpopo Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) emphasised a zero tolerance for illegal initiation schools, strengthened monitoring and close collaboration with traditional leaders and health authorities to protect initiates.
On Wednesday, 10 June, Coghsta outline preparations for the 2026 initiation school season, with strong focus on safety, compliance and cultural preservation.
The season will commence on 19 June and end on 19 July as announced by MEC Basikopo Makamu.
