The tragic deaths of 41 young men in South Africa were linked to complications from traditional male circumcision initiation ceremonies. This is a recurring and deeply concerning issue in the country, particularly in the Eastern Cape province.

• 41 young men, known as initiates, died while attending traditional initiation schools, known as ulwaluko.
• Where: The vast majority of the deaths occurred in the Eastern Cape, the province where this cultural practice is most prevalent and where these tragedies are most common each year.

The deaths are not a result of the circumcision itself when performed correctly, but rather due to severe complications arising from negligent and unhygienic practices. The primary causes reported include: