THE women guardians who mentor thousands of young maidens say their hard work is not paying off because no one guides young males.

Girls from as young as eight years to adulthood, who are considered virgins, meet regularly where they are taught life values and are encouraged to abstain from sex before marriage.

They eventually take part in the annual Reed Dance Cultural Celebrations held every September at King Goodwill Zwelithini's eNyokeni Palace. The event takes place this weekend.

Guardian Ntombi Mtshali says they are concerned that while they are busy "shaping" young girls into responsible adults, no one is taking care of boys or males.

Mtshali says it would have been better if, while they are doing all to teach maidens about life "challenges, men or male figures were doing the same for the boys.

"Circumcision is not enough. I think there should be more than that so we win this battle from all angles," she says.

Phakathikwempi Buthelezi, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi's lyricist and poet, says traditionally a man must respect women.

Vukani Mbele, spokesperson for arts and culture, says the Reed Dance is a draw card for international tourists and media, who are keen on getting information on the South African, particularly Zulu way of life.