Bulawayo’s Virgin Girl Group Grows
The number of virgin girls, known as *amatshitshi*, participating in this year’s King Mzilikazi Day commemorations in Bulawayo has surged from 40 last year to 65.
The annual celebration, which honours the cultural legacy of King Mzilikazi, founder of the Ndebele State, attracted a diverse crowd at Mhlahlandlela in Matobo, 20 kilometres from Bulawayo.
Led by 68-year-old matron Patricia Tshabalala, the *amatshitshi* group welcomes virgin girls from various suburbs and even from outside the country, who come dressed in traditional attire.
The girls, proven to be virgins, learn about sexual reproductive health, preserving their virginity, and African traditions.
Tshabalala encouraged parents to involve their daughters in the Virgin Girl organization, saying it helps prevent sexually transmitted diseases and early pregnancies.
“We started with 40 girls, but as we prepared for Mzilikazi Day, the number grew to over 60, with some coming from as far as South Africa. Most of them, however, are from Bulawayo,” she said, expressing joy over the revival of cultural values.
One of the participants, Buhlebenkosi Moyo (24), praised the initiative for shaping her life, keeping her away from negative influences like drug abuse.
Meanwhile, young Luthando Moyo (8) shared her excitement about learning games and cooking from Tshabalala while enjoying the cultural dances. Bulawayo’s Virgin Girl Group Grows
B.Metro
