The Banyankole tribesmen are a nomadic-pastoralist group that reside in certain parts of Western Uganda. This group of people practised a peculiar marriage custom that dates back to the 15th century in the Bantu Kingdom of Ankole in Uganda.
For many years, the Banyankole tribe had a different perception of what the duties of an aunt should be, particularly on the wedding day of her niece. The custom although outdated, was one that required the aunt of the bride to have sex with the groom so as to test how virile and potent he was.
Apart from sleeping with the groom, the aunt also had to confirm that the bride-to-be had kept her virginity before marriage. It was only when virginity was confirmed intact that the couple could be allowed to consummate their marriage.
Even after the couple had received a free pass to consummate, the aunt would still have to watch or listen to the couple while they made love.
For many years, the stringent requirements of this marriage rite reflected how much value the Banyankole tribe attached to virginity. They held virginity in such high esteem that unmarried girls were constantly cautioned to abstain from premarital sex.
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