President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken yet another significant step towards preserving and promoting the cultural practice of initiation in South Africa. In a recent statement, the President announced that the government has gazetted the Customary Initiation Act regulations, marking a significant milestone in the protection and regulation of this age-old tradition.
Initiation is an important rite of passage for young men in many cultures around the world, and South Africa is no exception. The custom of initiation, also known as ‘ukwaluka’ in isiXhosa, is deeply rooted in our history and is seen as an essential part of the transition from boyhood to manhood. However, in recent years, this practice has come under scrutiny due to the increase in deaths and injuries among initiates.
Acknowledging the need for a comprehensive framework to regulate initiation, President Ramaphosa signed the Customary Initiation Act in 2018. The Act aims to ensure the safety and well-being of initiates and to eradicate harmful practices associated with the custom.
The regulations, which have now been gazetted, provide a legal framework for the implementation of the Act. They cover all aspects of initiation, from the qualifications and responsibilities of traditional surgeons and caregivers to the health and safety standards that must be adhered to during the initiation process.
One of the key aspects of the regulations is the requirement for all traditional surgeons and caregivers to be registered with the Department of Traditional Affairs. This will ensure that only qualified and experienced individuals are allowed to perform circumcisions and oversee the initiation process. Moreover, registration will also enable the government to keep track of the number of initiates and take necessary steps to prevent overcrowding at initiation schools.
The regulations also outline specific health and safety measures, such as compulsory medical screening of initiates before and after the initiation process, clean and hygienic conditions at the initiation schools, and the provision of emergency medical services. These measures are crucial in ensuring the well-being of initiates and preventing the spread of diseases.
President Ramaphosa, in his statement, emphasized the importance of working together to ensure the success of the regulations. He urged traditional leaders, communities, and all stakeholders involved in initiation to adhere to the regulations and prioritize the safety of initiates at all times.
The President also touched on the issue of illegal initiation schools, which have been a cause for concern in recent years. The regulations lay out strict penalties for those who operate illegal schools, including imprisonment and fines. This sends a clear message that the government is committed to eradicating harmful practices and protecting the lives of initiates.
The gazetting of the regulations has been met with great enthusiasm and support from various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, the National House of Traditional Leaders, and the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa. They have all welcomed this development as a significant step towards the preservation of our cultural heritage and the safety of initiates.
In conclusion, the Customary Initiation Act regulations show the government’s dedication to upholding the tradition of initiation while ensuring the safety and well-being of initiates. President Ramaphosa’s leadership in this matter is commendable, and his efforts towards promoting a responsible and safe initiation process are highly appreciated. With the implementation of these regulations, we can look forward to a future where initiation remains an integral part of our culture, but without the risks and dangers that have plagued it in recent times.
