Every year in September over 25 thousand Zulu Maidens gather at King Goodwill Zwelithini’s royal palace for the Zulu Reed Dance (uMkhosi woMhlanga). The Reed dance is a colourful and cultural celebration that promotes respect for young women, and preserves the custom of keeping girls as virgins until marriage.

Over twenty thousand Zulu virgins gather at the Zulu Kings Enyokeni Traditional Residence for this very colourful and meaningful ceremony every September. In the olden days, females gathered at the Reed Ceremony (Umkhosi woMhlanga) and men at the First Fruits Ceremony. (Umkhosi wokweshwama).
Female regiments during the reign of early kings were classified in age groups.

The historical roots of the Zulus are based on Nkabazwe (land of origin) which is the source of civilisation. The Zulu King Goodwill Zwelethini kaBhekuzulu is referred to as uHlanga lwezwe because they link them with their common ancestors. When Zulus moved southwards they travelled in rafts 'isilulu' made of reeds. Hence the Zulu phrase 'sehla ngesilulu' meaning 'we came by traditional boats'.
The Zulu Reed dance is an educational experience and opportunity for young maidens to learn how to behave in front of the King.
This is done while delivering reed sticks and dancing. Maidens learn and understand the songs while the young princesses lead the virgins. The maidens wear 'izigege' and 'izinculuba' that show their bottoms. Traditional attire includes beadwork to symbolise African beauty at it's best.
At this stage the maidens are taught by senior females how to behave themselves and be proud of their virginity and Unclad bodies. That allows maidens to expect respect from their suitors who intend approaching them during the ceremony.

The second phase is educating the young maidens 'amatshitshi' by their older sisters 'amaqhikiza' on how to behave in married life. Young maidens are encouraged not to argue or respond immediately but to wish the suitor well on his journey back.
After protracted discussions the older sisters then approach the mother of the impressed maiden about the impending love relationship. If the father accepts the suitor the two families meet and gifts are exchanged as a sign of a cordial relationship.

After this the young maiden 'itshitshi' takes the next step of being 'iqhikiza' a lady in charge of the young maidens. By then they are experienced chief maidens who act as advisors to the younger maidens – and are ready for married life.

The Zulu Reed Dance plays a significant part of Zulu heritage in reflecting diverse African customs. This ceremony is still close to the heart of many traditional leaders and citizens. It portrays and instils a sense of pride, belonging and identity among the youth.

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This is held in Swaziland i believe and revived by the Swazi King.