Some chiefs in Blantyre have banned initiation ceremonies, a traditional cultural practice that marks a child’s entry into adulthood, as a precautionary measure against the spread of Covid-19.
Group village head Kamtukule of Senior Chief Somba said this yesterday during a Jhipiego-supported community engagement in Blantyre that attracted chiefs, faith and market leaders.
He said at the rate the global pandemic is spreading, serious measures need to be put in place, especially in communities where people were taking Covid-19 messages for granted.
“Anyone who will send children to initiation camps will pay a fine,” he said.
Oh her part, Blantyre district disease surveillance response officer Catherine Mwapasa said the development was crucial in the fight against the pandemic.
“Such events attract large crowds. As such, people cannot observe social distancing,” she said.
Mwapasa appealed to the leaders to also formulate by-laws to help curb the spread of Covid-19.
Blantyre district social welfare officer Stephano Joseph said the chiefs’ gesture will protect children from the pandemic.
