- Male initiation in South Africa refers to a cultural practice that marks the transformation of young men to adulthood. It is practised by many communities in South
Africa as a sacred and respected practice.
- The cultural practice of male initiation involves circumcision.
- Male initiation prepares young men to be responsible men in society.
- The draft Customary Initiation Bill was published on 14 August 2017 and approved for submission to Parliament in March 2018. Its purpose is to provide for the effective regulation of customary initiation practices.
What should you know before going to an initiation school?
- You should be healthy and fit before undergoing the cultural practice of male initiation.
- All young male initiates must consult their local healthcare centre beforehand.
- All initiates should involve their elders before undergoing the cultural practice of initiation.
- Initiation schools must be registered with the relevant authorities to make sure that they meet all health and safety requirements.
You should also be aware that:
- The customary practice of initiation has been subject to abuse which in many instances has resulted in serious injuries to and even the death of initiates.
- Some initiation schools operate for personal financial gain only with little or no concern for the well-being of initiates.
What is your rights and your responsibilities regarding male initiation?
You rights include:
- health education, good quality healthcare and counselling
- adequate supervision by an adult or care-giver you trust
- an approved traditional surgeon/ healthcare practitioner to perform the circumcision
- clean hygienic equipment
- seeing the registration certificate of a prospective initiation school.
It is your responsibility to:
- communicate any problems you may have to your parents, caregiver, healthcare worker, social worker, friend, etc.
- report any illegal or unregistered initiation school to your nearest police station.
Where can you find a registered initiation school?
Consult relevant authorities within your province as specified by your province’s department of traditional affairs or health.
What are the alternatives to initiation schools if you want to be circumcised?
Medical male circumcision is available at many public and private healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics and mobile units.
What are the benefits of being circumcised?
- It reduces your risk of HIV infection.
- It reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
- It improves hygiene.
Government programmes on customary initiation:
Safer Initiation 2018 - An initiative by the Western Cape Provincial Government
