Reed Dance Must Go Down!!!

Every now and again when I have time to myself I go through my friend’s FB pages to see what they are getting up to or writing about. Anyone who knows me knows that I seldom watch the news. I have my personal reasons and right at the top of the list is the fact that it is darn too depressing out there. Women are still getting raped. A large number of our children in our communities still do not have access to decent basic education, no one is safe on the streets or in the comfort of their homes. Nothing positive is ever shared to uplift the morale of our people to give them hope and make them see and believe that Africa has a bright future and their leaders do their utmost best to help achieve this vision they so be elected for.

This morning I came across a condolence message one of my friends posted about the tragic death of 65 women who were on their way to the reed dance hosted by King Mswati of Swaziland. It was my 1st time this came to light. Due to the fact that I don’t watch the news much this was just heart breaking news. The women passed away last Friday.

This eight-day event sees young virgins parade in front of the royal residence, in the hope of being selected as the King’s new wife. In September 2014 it was reported that 80 000 attended this ceremony. This is a 46 year old King who sees no issues marrying a 19 year girl. What does that say about our men and some of our leaders who will preserve culture or traditions regardless of how this impacts the society? Does he ever ask his people or the parents of these children how this impacts them or perhaps they don’t care much about that coz I am sure being married to the King has perks for all involved. Does this not portray women as commodities moved around by men for their benefit?

Witnesses say many of the women were flung out of the truck. Does that not appeal to his senses as a leader? According the 702 online site the Spokesperson for the Swaziland Solidarity network, Lucky Lukhele spoke to Africa Melane on their channel saying that this was just an accident and the tradition should not be scrapped. What this says is , no matter the casualties , the tradition will still be practiced.

Lukhele called for two days of prayer. Swaziland does need our prayers for the families who have lost their loved ones. They do not need prayers for this reed dance tradition which is outdated and very much sexist and stands against what women represent and the struggles that we have had to overcome in order to have a say about our lives. Regardless of the perks of kingship why can’t he “shela” like all other men and choose women of his age who have the same level of thinking, maturity etc. At 19 how does one say no the King? The last time a young lady challenged an African President she lost her job and that alone speaks volumes of those we entrust into power. Who dares to question these traditional events observed at the expense of women’s dignity and value.

If you are from Swaziland and you once observed this reed dance I am curious to hear from you. How was it? Where you excited? Did you think there was a possibility the King would pick you? Or perhaps your sibling of family member was chosen by the King as a wife. How has this impacted your family. Email me : lorahsibbs@gmail.com