The renowned Qwabe Twins, Virginia and Viggy Qwabe, recently joined thousands of Zulu virgins at the vibrant Umkhosi Womhlanga (Reed Dance Festival), to honor their virginity and celebrate their rich Zulu heritage.
In an exclusive interview with Daily Sun, Virginia shared the significance of their participation. Viggy also reflected on the festival’s impact on their understanding of Zulu traditions. “Umkhosi Womhlanga helps by letting us know our culture because we are people who want to learn more. Learning about Umkhosi Womhlanga, we have realised that many young women are surviving with it and we are also surviving through it,” she explained.
Watch: Musicians Qwabe Twins attended Umkhosi Womhlanga held at Enyokeni royal palace in Nongoma, KZN. @dailysunsa pic.twitter.com/eQW3msoJEV
— Jabulani Langa (@JabulaniL2023) September 14, 2024
According to City Press, The Reed Dance Festival is not only a time for traditional singing and dancing but also serves as a cultural education for young Zulu maidens. Older Zulu women teach these virgins about proper conduct, emphasising celibacy until marriage and respect for their bodies.
#Southafrica?? 40th anniversary of umkhosi womhlanga/Zulu reed dance ceremony at enyokeni palace, AmaZulu Kingdom, South Africa
#umkhowiwomhlanga2024 #zuluroyalfamily#zulureeddancePhotos: @SportArtsKZN pic.twitter.com/9mbEWzf5nt
— The African Royal Families (@ThAfricanRoyals) September 15, 2024
In addition, TheWitness reported that a 73-year-old Dr Ngipheni Ngcobo also joined the thousands of maidens attending the event. Ngipheni has been part of Umkhosi Womhlanga since she was 20 and proudly maintains her virginity. Her commitment is inspired by her parents’ advice. The publication further reported that she was honoured with an honorary doctorate from the United Christ Bible Institute.
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