A reed dance in the township to save tradition

More than 60 girls from Alex participated in uMkhosi WoMhlanga, a reed dance that took place in East Bank to celebrate virgin girls, teach them about their roots, and promote respect for women and virginity before the marriage.

The dance was hosted by Andisiwe Mahawula, leader of Amatshitshi Amahle organisation, which focuses on grooming virgin girls on how they should behave as young girls and respect tradition.

Speaking to Alex News, Mahawula said all the girls were required to undergo a virginity test before they were allowed to participate in the dance.

Nombukiso ‘Madlamini’ Sibiya who is referred to as gogo, does the testing and has been with the organisation since its formation in 2016 by Fundiswa Masumpa, mother of Mahawula.

“We believe that tradition is something we grew up on, so we have to share it with the youngsters so that they also can teach up-coming generations, and the cycle will continue, tradition will live forever,” Mahawula said

“We only focus on virgin girls which is the reason we start grooming them from an early age, eight years old.

“We give them reasons why they should remain virgins until marriage time comes.”

She added that for the event to be such a huge success it was through the help of Alexandra organisations such as Ratang Bana, Thari ya Basadi, and Legae La Alex to name a few.

“I would like to thank all the organisations that played a role in ensuring that Amatshitshi Amahle’s event becomes a success.”