Cape Town — Caught between a clash of the law and tradition, the Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism, which funds the Umkhosi woMhlanga (Reed Dance), has distanced itself from the controversial virginity testing which has been declared criminal, but is intrinsically linked to the ceremony.

Yesterday, more than 20 000 maidens converged on King Goodwill Zwelithini's eNyokeni palace in Nongoma for the dance.

The Reed Dance is taking place for the first time after the passing of the new Children's Act, in terms of which the testing of virginity for girls under 16 is a criminal offence.

Arts, Culture and Tourism spokeswoman Ncumisa Fandesi said, "The department has never indicated it supports or discourages virginity testing. What it does support is for young girls to participate in the reed dance so they hear the king talk to themabout critical issues such as HIV Aids, teenage pregnancy and the dangers of drug abuse."