12 December 2025
Safe Festive
Message from the SANAC Civil Society Forum Chair – Safe Festive
By Mr Solly Nduku, National Chairperson – SANAC Civil Society Forum
As we enter the festive season, a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, I wish all South Africans a safe and memorable holiday period. This is a special time for families, communities, and young people across the country, and with it comes an important responsibility to protect ourselves and one another.
Whether you’re travelling, attending gatherings, or celebrating with loved ones, remember that your safety and wellbeing come first. Let’s look out for one another by making smart, responsible choices.
I urge everyone to prioritise responsible social behaviour, especially when it comes to preventing and treating the three epidemics, (i.e., HIV, TB, STIs). Let’s continue to make use of the tools available to us: condoms, PrEP, regular testing, and completing TB treatment. Protecting your health is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones this season.
As celebrations increase, so does the temptation to overindulge. Excessive drinking and substance abuse can cloud judgment and lead to risky behaviours. Stay mindful, stay safe, and look out for one another.
This message comes at the tale-end of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, a global campaign calling on all of us to take a stand against gender-based violence (GBV). As we celebrate, let us also reflect on the need to build safer homes, communities, and relationships. Violence, especially against women, children, and LGBTQIA+ persons, has no place in our society. Let us use this time to promote respect, dignity, and protection for all.
Initiation season
This period also marks the start of the initiation season in many parts of the country, especially the Eastern Cape, a deeply significant cultural rite of passage for young men. As communities uphold this important tradition, we call for a safe, dignified, and responsible initiation season for all. No family should lose a child during this sacred journey. Let us work together to ensure that every initiate returns home healthy, strong, and transformed.
Key Safety Measures and Calls to Action:
- Parental Responsibility: Parents must be involved, choose legal schools, ensure pre-screening, and know their children’s rights, even at the school.
- Health and Readiness: Initiates must be medically checked psychologically prepared, and drink plenty of water.
- Legislation (Customary Initiation Act, 2021): Mandates written consent for 16–18-year-olds, prohibits forced attendance, and sets standards.
- Collaboration: Government, traditional leaders, communities and health sectors must work together.
- Zero tolerance: Illegal schools endangering lives will be closed, campaigns aim for “Zero Deaths”
What parents and communities should do:
- Screen: Get medical checks and ensure psychological readiness.
- Consent: Provide written consent if children are 16-18.
- Report: Inform authorities about illegal schools or abuse.
- Support: Work with leaders for a safe, dignified tradition.
On behalf of SANAC Civil Society Forum, I would like to express my gratitude to all 18 sectors of CSF, thank you for your leadership, your partnership, and your unwavering commitment to a South Africa where no one is left behind. The same gratitude is extended to government, the private sector, our communities, health workers, and partners for their ongoing commitment to building a healthier South Africa.
Aluta Continua!!