COLLECTING and presenting their king with cut reeds in homage to their culture is just one aspect of the Zulu Reed Dance (uMkhosi woMhlanga).
The entire event takes place over several days and involves singing, dancing and other activities designed to help young Zulu girls prepare for womanhood.
Joining the friends and relatives of thousands of young girls attired in traditional Zulu dress to watch them sing, dance and celebrate their culture, is a powerful and moving experience.
The Zulu Reed Dance, is a centuries-old tradition and will be taking place on Saturday and Sunday (5 and 6 September) at the eNyokeni Palace outside Nongoma.
Girls from all over the country arrive in the area for the traditional Zulu festivities.
While the lessons and ceremonies are steeped in Zulu tradition and culture, this mass gathering of young people is also an opportunity to discuss contemporary social issues that affect them, such as HIV and teen pregnancies.
