GEORGE NEWS - The George Initiation Forum (GIF) says there are an increased number of initiates this season. There are currently 104 initiates in George and this number is expected to increase as the initiation season progresses.
GIF chairperson Mzwandile Gingcana said they have experienced no material problems so far. However, he still calls on all parents and those who look after the boys in the mountain to practise extra caution and take good care of the boys.
Gingcana said the George Municipality has assisted the forum by providing water tanks. Water will also be delivered to various initiation schools with trucks.
"We are pleased that our work is going well and that people continue to consult us on various matters. We do frequent site visits to ensure that everything is going according to plan," he said.
Since the start of the initiation season 18 deaths have occurred in the Eastern Cape. In the latest instance an 18-year-old from Maclear, Elundini, reportedly died at a legal initiation school in the Joe Gqabi district.
It is alleged that although the ingcibi (traditional surgeon) at the particular initiation school is registered, he lacks the necessary qualifications or training. In the Western Cape there has been only one recorded initiation linked death, in Beaufort West.
For more about initiation matters in George, contact Gingcana on 078 903 7378 or 071 773 6565.
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