These selected photographs were taken in various health institutions in the Eastern Cape during 2012 and 2013. They illustrate the magnitude of the problem faced by medical practitioners during the initiation seasons.





Informed consent has been obtained for each clinical photograph shown. It should be noted that this consent may be withdrawn at any time; subjects can contact me at ulwaluko@gmail.com if they wish to do so. Every effort has been made to ensure anonymity and all metadata has been removed. Some photographs have been edited digitally to enhance colours and contrast.







Mia Malan, the health editor of the Mail and Guardian newspaper, wrote two articles about the boys behind the photographs: 'the boys who lost their manhood' and 'play speaks for maimed initiates'. Both articles are excruciating reads.















Please be warned that most photographs are graphic. Scroll down to view them.

















