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U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• International News
South Africa to Ban Zulu Custom of Virginity Testing
December 14, 2005 This week, South Africa's National Assembly will debate a bill that bans the age-old Zulu custom of virginity testing for girls under 16. The tradition, which involves the inspection of girls' genitalia, has been criticized by human rights advocates who call it invasive and degrading. But others see it as an integral part of Zulu culture, and they argue that it promotes sex education while also preventing the spread of AIDS. Custom dictates that elder women in the community conduct the tests, in some families as often as once a month. Already the bill has been amended, taking into account objections raised by traditional leaders. Back to other news for December 14, 2005 Agence France Presse 12.13.05; Fienie Grobler This article was provided by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a part of the publication CDC HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention News Update. |
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