The Alfred Duma Local Municipality hosted its Heritage Month Maidens Celebration at the Civic Hall on Sunday, 27 September 2026. The event, attended by over 500 young maidens and their matrons took place as a celebration and recognition of Heritage month. Speaking at the event one of the matrons, Dr Zwane, shared the history and culture behind virginity testing. She explained that she established the programme in 1996 with the aim of reducing teenage pregnancy, combating the spread of HIV and AIDS and discouraging drug and substance abuse among young girls. Mama Mdlolo who spoke on behalf of parents, addressed the maidens and highlighted the three pillars that guide them, which she likened to a three-legged pot: themselves, their parents and their matrons. She emphasised that listening to guidance is key to achieving a bright future and encouraged the maidens to continue upholding and safeguarding their virginity.
A crowd cheering moment was when Nosipho Mayisela, a 34-year-old maiden who continues to uphold the practice, shared her journey. She said she was inspired by seeing her aunts participate and came to regard it as a beautiful tradition. She credited the support and encouragement of her family and matrons for helping her remain committed and expressed her gratitude to them. In his address, the mayor of Alfred Duma Local Municipality, Cllr Z.J. Sibisi, reflected on his five-year journey in office and his passion for education and youth development. He highlighted the municipality’s efforts to assist young people through registration bursaries, assisting a total of 1060 learners since the 2021/2022 financial year to date. The mayor also spoke about the municipality’s support for maidens attending the Zulu Reed Dance (uMkhosi woMhlanga). He noted that when he took office, only one bus was provided for participants. This support has steadily increased over the years, with six buses provided this year.
The special guest at the event, Mr Sanele Zondo, a member of the National Assembly, encouraged the maidens to safeguard their virginity and remain focused on their goals. He also addressed the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), cautioning young women against entering relationships for material gain rather than genuine affection, as such circumstances can often lead to abuse. He encouraged them to be self-reliant and work towards building a better future for themselves and their families. At the end of the programme all matrons were recognised and honoured with certificates and gifts in appreciation of their dedication, commitment and continued guidance of the maidens.
FOR INQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Alfred Duma Local Municipality Communications and IGR
SP Motsoane: (Acting Manager: Communications & IGR)
0366372231 ext. 7779 or 0729007872