Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia has drafted a bill that seeks to make male circumcision compulsory in Kenya. The bill, which is yet to be tabled in the National Assembly, has sparked heated debate across the country.
According to Kaguchia, making male circumcision compulsory will help reduce the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the country.
“Implementing compulsory male circumcision can lead to a significant reduction in the incidences of HIV, HPV and other STDs thereby lowering healthcare costs associated with their treatment and long term management,” reads part of the draft bill.
The bill also proposes the banning of traditional circumcision while promoting medically supervised circumcision.
Kaguchia is seeking to transform male circumcision from being a cultural practice to being a mandatory public health requirement.
“The introduction of medically supervised male circumcision between birth and 18 years of age will contribute significantly to a healthier, safer and more prosperous society for all,” the MP noted in the bill.
The bill is likely to encounter resistance since male circumcision is typically determined by culture, ethnicity and religion of different communities in Kenya.
However, Kaguchia has defended the bill, explaining that it won’t interfere with cultural activities associated with circumcision in different communities.
He explained that the cutting of the foreskin is done medically after which communities are allowed to continue with traditional ceremonies associated with circumcision.
The MP explained that initially, some boys have sustained serious injuries during traditional circumcision that was done by traditional circumcisers, hence the need to involve medical experts in the process.
“Medical professionals will be able to access individual cases and ensure that those with specific health concerns are treated with appropriate caution,” read part of the bill.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), male circumcision reduces the risk of getting HIV through sexual intercourse by between 50 to 60 percent.
Data from clinical trials show that male circumcision helps to lower risk of getting syphilis by 42 percent, according to the CDC.
The bill has been met with mixed reactions. Some Kenyans have welcomed the proposal, arguing that it will help reduce the spread of STDs. Others have opposed the bill, arguing that it is an infringement on individual rights and cultural practices.
