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Thousands of girls across South Africa are queuing up for an unusual but all-important kind of
exam - the virginity test. Dressed in nothing more than a skimpy traditional loin cloth and beads, the teenagers are not at all self-conscious about their bare breasts. Instead, they're proud - they say - to take part in a mass celebration of their chastity.
Female virginity is important in many parts of Africa. It’s a badge of respectability, which in many cases places a premium on a woman, determining the bride price a family may demand
for their daughter. Virgins play a central role in the annual reed dance of the Zulu tribe.
Untouched maidens gather reeds symbolising their virginity to parade before the King hoping to be
chosen as his new bride. If a reed breaks it’s a sign that the girl is not pure. A disgrace enough for
her to be beaten and sent home.