Doreen Mokgolo
A group of young women in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni, are undergoing regular monthly virginity testing to prove to their parents that they are still virgins – but local activists are questioning the practice.
At the end of every month, scantily dressed virgins are seen walking and singing through the streets.
Community activist Refiloe Charmaine said this should be banned because the practice only exists to ensure the roots of patriarchy remain strong in society.
“This can’t be right. Young women undergoing the practice are not allowed their own cellphones to avoid being seen on social media or have friends outside the group,” she said.
“Why are boys not being tested for their virginity?”
One of the many schools operated in the area is Ebuhleni be Zintombi Cultural Centre. The school’s Veliswa Manki said young age girls are taught to respect their bodies.
“We teach them how to carry themselves as young woman, their role in the society, sex, and other issues surrounding womanhood,” said Manki, 74.
“We are facing teenage pregnancies in the country because young women start having sex to pass the time. They don’t understand what they are getting themselves into until they find themselves pregnant.”
By motivating them to remain virgins, Manki said they are able to start having sex when they are older and more responsible.
But Manki said the numbers of the girls who attended her school have declined.
“We are worried that some might have lost their virginity and are scared this might be discovered. We are hoping this is not the case,” she said.
Picture source: @ArtsKZN
