December 31, 2025, 09:48December 31, 2025, 09:48
In South Africa, 41 young men died during this year’s traditional circumcision ritual. Velenkosini Hlabisa, Minister of Cooperative Governance, said this in an interview on state television channel Newzroom Afrika. Hlabisa cited negligence as the main reason for the numerous deaths.
The ritual was intended to prepare the young men for their lives as adults. (symbol image)Image: AP NY
It is about a cultural practice in which pubescent boys in rural areas, often far from health facilities, are circumcised and prepared for their role as adults. Last year, 28 young men died during ritualized circumcisions. In 2024, 38 deaths were recorded.
Staff not medically trained
The ritual, which is practiced in South Africa by the Xhosa and Ndebele ethnic groups, among others, is culturally deeply rooted. In addition to circumcision, it also includes instruction regarding the social duties of young men.
Authorities and traditional leaders regularly call for people to only take part in the ritual at registered schools where medically trained staff carry out the rituals. Since 2010, the approved establishments have been strictly regulated by the government. Attempts to promote medical circumcision in clinics to minimize health risks have so far had little success. (sda/dpa)
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