The National Department of Traditional Affairs and the North West Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department have embarked on an awareness campaign to promote lawful traditional practices under the Customary Initiation Act of 2021. This initiative aims to reinforce the importance of registering initiation schools and adhering to the regulations outlined in the Act. The campaign targets various stakeholders, including government departments, initiation practitioners, caregivers, parents, and prospective initiates.
According to Section 26 (02) of the Customary Act, registering an initiation school is mandatory, and it must be done at least three months before the commencement of the initiation season. The programme was coordinated in preparation for the 2026 Summer Initiation Season, which commences on 6 November and 10 December for non-schooling and school-going initiates, respectively. All initiation pass-out activities are set to be concluded on or before 08 January 2027.
The campaign drew together various stakeholders in Mahikeng, including government departments, initiation practitioners, caregivers, parents, and prospective initiates. The goal is to achieve zero deaths and zero illegal initiation schools while strengthening awareness and promoting public participation. The North West Provincial Initiation Coordination Committee (PICC) Deputy Chairperson, Andries Stemmer, highlighted key provisions of the Customary Initiation Act that guide how customary initiation schools ought to function.
Stemmer explained that the law provides for standardised processes from the application for permits through the PICC, until the last phase when initiates return from the schools. This is done to deal with illegal and unregistered schools, and other unlawful activities that are key contributors to deaths, injuries, and negligence in many instances. He also emphasised that applications are required by law to be signed by traditional authorities, and registration is done through PICC structures only.
Mahikeng has been identified as one of the hotspots of illegal initiation school operations, with cases of lawlessness, including the kidnapping of children, fronting, and gangsterism. The engagement session resolved to ensure active citizenry and a shared responsibility amongst all role players to uphold safer customary practices. Mamelani Tshabalala, speaking on behalf of the Mahikeng Initiation School Committee, advocated for increased community involvement, particularly when addressing challenges in schools.
Tshabalala said the committee has identified bullying tendencies among learners who have undergone initiation towards those who have not. He called on parents to assist the Department of Education in instilling high-level discipline at home and to become involved in the affairs of their children. The National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (NHTKL) Secretary, Abram Sithole, emphasised the importance of intergenerational dialogue and the preservation of culture and customs.
Sithole said local traditional leaders have a responsibility to ensure the preservation of culture and customs, placing much emphasis on intergenerational dialogue. He encouraged the transfer of indigenous knowledge through intergenerational engagements to share wisdom and ideas. The awareness campaign aims to promote public participation and strengthen awareness about the importance of lawful traditional practices.
Key points
- The National Department of Traditional Affairs and North West Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department launch awareness campaign.
- Mahikeng identified as hotspot for illegal initiation school operations.
- Stakeholders advocate for increased community involvement and intergenerational dialogue.
