Honouring tradition and safeguarding the initiation season
Story: Cllr Nalisile Mathetha | Photo: Supplied
Photo caption: Cllr Nalisile Mathetha
The initiation season is a time of profound cultural importance, officially commencing on 8 November 2024, as announced by the Eastern Cape MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Zolile Williams. While the season is open to those not currently in school, students must be allowed to complete their final examinations before participating. This revered tradition, deeply rooted in African heritage, symbolises the transformative journey from adolescence to manhood—a rite of passage that holds special meaning for both the young initiates and their communities.
Despite its cultural significance, the tradition faces various challenges, including the need for heightened safety measures and societal support. These challenges have necessitated the intervention of government and community stakeholders to preserve the integrity and sanctity of this practice.
As Speaker of the Walter Sisulu Local Municipality (WSLM), I extend heartfelt well-wishes to all boys undertaking this transformative journey. I also call on parents to assume their critical role in ensuring the well-being of their children during this period. It is imperative to protect our young men from harm and equip them with the necessary resources to embrace this tradition fully.
Under the theme "Mabaye Bephila, Babuye Bephila, Siyazingca Ngesiko Lethu" ("Let them go safely, let them return safely, we take pride in our tradition"), we are reminded of the collective responsibility shared by society, government departments, law enforcement agencies, and all stakeholders to uphold and safeguard this sacred custom.
At WSLM, we are steadfast in our commitment to supporting the Local Initiation Forum (LIF) and the working committees tasked with monitoring and protecting this tradition. Our municipality has mobilized a dedicated team to ensure effective resource allocation and to provide close oversight throughout the initiation season.
We also urge law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and to act decisively against any actions that seek to undermine this cultural milestone. It is through these concerted efforts that we can preserve the dignity and safety of this time-honoured tradition for generations to come.
As we embark on this season, let us embrace our heritage with pride, ensuring that our boys journey into manhood safely and return to their families enriched by this transformative experience. Let us work together to honour, protect, and celebrate this cornerstone of our African identity.