At least 41 young men have died in South Africa during traditional circumcision initiation rites in November and December. Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa attributed the deaths to negligence by both registered and unregistered initiation schools, as well as parents, who often disregard safety and medical advice. Despite legislation requiring registration, illegal schools continue to operate, contributing to the fatalities. These rites are a cultural passage into manhood practiced by various ethnic groups.