“My Covenant”: 75-Year-Old KZN Virgin Determined To Attend Reed Dance Despite Age-Related Challenges

• South African granny, Ngipheni Ngcobo, who turned 75 on 15 August, has spent her entire life committed to a vow of chastity
• The KwaZulu-Natal woman attended the Nomkhubulwane Festival in Pietermaritzburg ahead of the annual Reed Dance
• Ngcobo says she still hopes to attend the Reed Dance but needs the government to arrange proper transport and accommodation

A KwaZulu-Natal woman has marked her 75th birthday with the same distinction she has carried her entire life: remaining a virgin. Ngipheni Ngcobo turned 75 on 15 August and says she has no intention of changing that.

Ngcobo was speaking to IOL News on the sidelines of the Nomkhubulwane Festival in KwaMafunze, Pietermaritzburg, over the weekend, where maidens from across KwaZulu-Natal gathered ahead of next month's Reed Dance. She said:

"I remain true to my word, and I will never depart from it. I hope that my covenant to remain pure lasts until death because I am old now. I turned 75 years old on the 15th of this month, still a virgin."

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Ngcobo views her commitment as more than a personal decision, hoping her experience will inspire younger women. She believes choosing to remain pure can contribute to a healthier and better life, despite the challenges and social pressures that may come with it. She encourages young women to stay committed to their values, insisting that maintaining purity is achievable even when it is difficult.

Ngcobo's reed dance wish

Despite her advanced age, Ngcobo remains determined to attend this year’s Reed Dance, but she says government assistance is essential. She explains that travelling by bus with younger maidens and sleeping in a tent are no longer suitable options, given the health concerns associated with her age.

Reed Dance celebrates Zulu culture

The annual Reed Dance showcases Zulu culture through traditional singing, dancing and ceremonies. Held at eNyokeni Palace in Nongoma, the event brings together young women who participate in cultural teachings, including lessons on respect, celibacy and contemporary issues such as HIV and teenage pregnancy.

Read the full IOL story here.

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Source: Briefly News