Limpopo records first initiation death this winter
The Limpopo Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs has reported the first initiation death in the province since the 2025 winter initiation school season.
The 19-year-old initiate, Raymond Sekele, died after being admitted to Philadelphia Hospital in the Sekhukhune District on Sunday.
According to Member of the Executive Council (MEC) Basikopo Makamu, Sekele was receiving medical treatment for epilepsy during his admission at the initiation school.
He says the initiate first experienced an epileptic episode on 2 July, but was stabilized at the school.
"The school was advised to urgently take the initiate to a hospital where he could meet the doctor for further checks," says Amos Phago, spokesperson for the MEC.
"Upon arrival at Philadelphia Hospital, Sekele was admitted for emergency treatment.
"Later, the caregiver received a call from the initiate's family confirming that the initiate had passed away. 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. However this death is a confirmation that we need to work even harder to avert fatalities at during initiation season. "
During the 2024 winter initiation season, three initiate deaths were recorded in Limpopo.
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