South Africa's 2026 winter initiation season continues to raise alarm, with the death toll now standing at 43, while dozens of initiates have also suffered injuries and amputations. As the country grapples with balancing cultural traditions and the protection of lives, what needs to change to preserve this important cultural practice while preventing further loss of life?

Guest: Prof VVO Bhedlindaba Mkhize, Professor of Ancestorology in the Discipline of Religion and Theology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a traditional healer known as Umlambomunye  

 

 

 

South Africa's 2026 winter initiation season continues to raise alarm, with the death toll now standing at 43, while dozens of initiates have also suffered injuries and amputations. As the country grapples with balancing cultural traditions and the protection of lives, what needs to change to preserve this important cultural practice while preventing further loss of life?
Guest: Prof VVO&nbsp;Bhedlindaba&nbsp;Mkhize, Professor of&nbsp;Ancestorology&nbsp;in the Discipline of Religion and Theology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a traditional healer known as&nbsp;Umlambomunye&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The National Briefing

South Africa's 2026 winter initiation season continues to raise alarm, with the death toll now standing at 43, while dozens of initiates have also suffered injuries and amputations.