The Alfred Duma Local Municipality hosted a Maidens Send-Off Ceremony at the Ladysmith Town Hall on Friday, 11 September 2026. The Mayor Cllr Z.J Sibis accompanied by ward 14 councillor, Cllr. M.M. Khoza, were amongst thousands of maidens, maidens matrons (onomehlo) and spectators in an energy filled uMnambithi town hall. The aim of the event was to provide support to the maidens who were travelling to eMashobeni Royal House in uPhongolo were the annual reed dance (Umkhosi womhlanga) was held on 12 and 13 September 2026.
His Worship the Mayor, Cllr. Z.J. Sibisi, welcomed all the maidens and commended the maidens matrons for all their dedication and putting the Alfred Duma Local Municipality on the map. He highlighted that their unwavering support towards the maidens who chose to preserve their virginity, shows their commitment to preservation of culture and heritage.
“The dedication of our maidens and matrons helps build a stronger society by fostering independence among young women. When women are empowered, we take an important step toward reducing Gender-Based Violence. To our maidens, I say, the Reed Dance is not the end of your journey. Focus on your education, for it is the key to success and the pathway to a brighter future”, the Mayor added.
As part of supporting maidens abstinence, the municipality has provided transport for the maidens over the years, in 2022 there were 2 buses, in 2023 another 2 buses, in 2024, 2 buses, 2025 and addition was made and 4 buses were sponsored and finally in 2026 a total of 6 buses.
In his closing address, the Mayor encouraged the maidens to take care of themselves during the Reed Dance event and beyond. He further announced that on 26 September 2026 a Heritage Month celebration in honour of all maidens even those who weren’t part of the reed dance, to come together and celebrate the importance of heritage and culture.
Mrs Hadebe on behalf of the maidens matrons conveyed words of appreciation to the Alfred Duma Local Municipality for its continued support and assured the Mayor that they will always be grateful for the support the municipality has been offering.
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