GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - In Graaff-Reinet, young males were recently warmly received by their families and the community after finishing their initiation school, a traditional rite of passage signifying their transition into adulthood. Initiation practices have long been a part of community cultures, marking the shift from one life stage to another. 

For males, this process aims to prepare them for responsible roles within society. A significant aspect of this initiation school involves educating these young men in cultural traditions. 

They receive teachings on courtship, social responsibilities, marriage customs, values, principles, hardships, respect, and accountability within their cultural heritage. 

Marko Dampies, the secretary of the Graaff-Reinet Initiation Forum, mentioned that since the official commencement of the summer initiation season on 4 November, there have been no significant incidents in the area.

The school had 34 attendees from Asherville and Santaville, and 66 from Masizakhe. 

The welcoming festivities, which began in early December, were accompanied by music and song. 

Family members were dressed in traditional attire while young men engaged in stick fighting, a traditional practice symbolic of the welcome. In the past, stick fighting showcased martial arts skills without intending harm; it was more about skillful play than causing injury. 

Attendees were treated to refreshments, and women brought gifts for the young men while elders imparted wisdom and advice for their lives.

Women dress in traditional attire during the welcome ceremony. Photos: Neco Bokwe

Playful stick fighting, a symbolic tradition demonstrating martial arts skills. This playful display is part their welcoming back events.

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