Twenty-one young initiates from two villages near Mokopane in Limpopo have been hospitalised after undergoing unsafe circumcision procedures at registered initiation schools.
The affected boys, from Lesodi and Rantlakane village schools in the Waterberg District, were admitted to George Masebe Hospital, where medical staff determined that they would require corrective surgeries.
The issue came to light during routine monitoring by provincial officials. With the initiation season nearing its end, health authorities intervened quickly, transferring five of the boys for treatment on July 11. Due to limited hospital capacity, the remaining 16 initiates were temporarily returned to their schools and are scheduled for transfer to Mokopane Hospital on July 14.
Limpopo’s MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs expressed deep concern, stating that steps were being taken to ensure no fatalities occurred. He plans to visit the affected schools for further assessment and stressed the need for strict safety measures.
This incident follows the deaths of two initiates earlier this month in the province. Limpopo has approved 530 initiation schools for the 2025 season—322 for boys and 208 for girls.
Authorities have urged all school leaders, traditional surgeons, and caregivers to prioritise health and safety until the season concludes.