The death toll of initiates in the Eastern Cape has risen to 17 during this summer initiation season. The OR Tambo District is accounting for the most deaths with six initiates, followed by the Amathole District with four deaths.
While Chris Hani District and Buffalo City Metro account for three deaths respectively and one initiate confirmed dead in Alfred Nzo District.
The Deputy Minister of Traditional Affairs, Zolile Burns-Ncamashe is on a three-day urgent oversight visit in the province to assess the situation and engage with traditional leaders.
