PHUTHADITJHABA, South Africa (AP) — The 22-year-old Lamkelo Mtyho had no known health issues when he joined his peers, wrapped in blankets and smeared in clay, for the most important ritual of his ...

The controversial summer Ulwaluko rite, carried out by the Xhosa people in South Africa, has concluded for 2025, leaving 39 boys dead. The traditional ceremony, in which initiates are circumcised, ...

Although the foreskin has been enjoying something of a comeback in recent years as the national circumcision rate has dropped, these activists — or “intactivists,” as many proudly call themselves — ...

The tragic deaths of boys during traditional circumcision rites in South Africa raise serious concerns about the safety and ...

At least 48 boys and young men died during the latest round of initiation ceremonies in South Africa, which involve the highly secretive process of traditional circumcision to “become a man.” ...