Social Development Minister Dina Pule met with King Misuzulu kaZwelithini at Mashobeni Royal Palace in Pongola, KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday to discuss a national study examining how South Africans view virginity inspection.
The meeting aimed to build stronger ties between government and traditional leadership as they work to understand the cultural, social and ethical sides of virginity inspection whilst protecting children’s rights, dignity, safety and wellbeing.
Study to cover all nine provinces
The department has started a study to learn how people across the country see and practise virginity inspection.
Researchers will speak to those affected by the practice, including traditional leaders, parents, caregivers, young people and other stakeholders. The study will also check if current laws protect children well enough.
The research will take place in all nine provinces and include 1 000 face-to-face interviews, ten focus group discussions with people who have undergone virginity testing and up to 33 interviews with key informants.
Government respects cultural heritage
Pule told the King the department does not want to undermine African culture and traditions. Instead, it wants to create useful conversations and make sure policy choices come from solid research and proper consultation.
“Government recognises the important role played by traditional leadership in preserving our cultural heritage, guiding communities and passing values from one generation to the next. Our responsibility is to work together to ensure that cultural considerations are approached with respect, whilst safeguarding the rights and best interests of every child,” Pule said.
The Minister stressed the need to involve traditional leaders and communities throughout the research to make sure different views are heard before any policy recommendations are made.
King backs partnership approach
King Misuzulu welcomed the department’s partnership proposal and backed plans that protect children’s rights whilst preserving cultural heritage and traditions.
He said boys should not be left out of talks on cultural practices, especially male circumcision, which happens in many parts of the country.
The King asked the department to work closely with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs to engage other traditional leaders and strengthen teamwork on the project.
He also raised the need to support old-age homes and children’s homes. The department will visit these facilities to assess their needs and look at ways to help.
Call for participation
The department confirmed it will use evidence and consultation to guide the study.
“The findings will help inform the assessment of existing regulations and guide possible policy recommendations, taking into consideration cultural perspectives, as well as the constitutional and legislative obligations to protect children,” the department explained.
Traditional leaders, communities and stakeholders are asked to take part in the research, share their views and help build an informed understanding of virginity inspection in South Africa.
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