A mysterious fire that broke out in the early hours of Tuesday, 1 July 2025, at a private initiation school in Ga-Maake Village, near Tzaneen, Limpopo, has left six initiates and a traditional surgeon injured. The sudden blaze occurred around midnight, catching the occupants off guard and forcing a rapid escape.
According to the principal and traditional surgeon of the school, both initiates and staff were asleep when they were jolted awake by the smell of smoke and the sight of flames engulfing their shelter. The group quickly fled the burning premises, but seven people, including the surgeon, sustained injuries. All were transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.School supplies
In the aftermath of the incident, Limpopo MEC for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Basikopo Makamu, visited the school on Wednesday, 2 July, to assess the damage and support the injured. “The incident is shocking indeed,” said Makamu. He also expressed his disappointment, especially since the department and the Provincial Initiation Coordination Committee (PICC) had put comprehensive preparations in place ahead of the 2025 initiation season.
Despite the setback, efforts to ensure continuity were swift. An alternative initiation school was promptly established to accommodate the 18 initiates who were not injured, allowing them to complete the cultural process without delay.
PICC chairman Hosi Shitlhangoma Chauke emphasized the significance of inter-departmental cooperation in ensuring the safety and success of the 2025 initiation season. “We will continue to work closely with the provincial health department, Department of Education, SAPS, and the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure that the 2025 initiation season becomes a resounding success and complies with the laws of the Republic,” Chauke stated.
As of now, the exact cause of the fire remains unknown and is under investigation by authorities. This incident has raised concern among cultural leaders and community members, many of whom are calling for stricter safety protocols at initiation schools.
Initiation schools are a long-standing tradition in many South African communities, serving as rites of passage into adulthood. However, incidents such as fires, illnesses, and even fatalities in past years have placed increasing pressure on government and traditional leaders to improve oversight, safety measures, and health standards.
The authorities have urged community members and stakeholders to remain calm while investigations continue and have assured the public that measures are being taken to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.
