Male MPs in Tanzania face call to circumcision to stop the spread of HIV

A Tanzanian MP asked for checks to see if her male colleagues were circumcised – a procedure known to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

Jackline Ngonyani said that all MPs who have not been circumcised should be subjected to the procedure.

His suggestion divides the opinion among his colleagues.

HIV is considered a major threat to public health in Tanzania. About 70% of the male population is circumcised.

According to 2016 figures, about 5% of Tanzania's adult population would have been infected with HIV – making it the 13th highest infection rate in the world.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), circumcision reduces by about 60% the risk of contracting HIV in heterobadual men.

Several African countries fighting HIV epidemics have launched campaigns to encourage men to undergo the procedure of surgically removing the foreskin from the penis.

Ms. Ngonyani made these comments during a debate in parliament on ways to curb the spread of HIV in the country.

His proposal was supported by MP Joseph Selasini.

In neighboring Kenya, some senior political leaders voluntarily submitted to the process in 2008 to encourage men in their communities to do the same.

However, MP Joseph Kasheku objected to Ms. Ngonyani's proposal, describing it as rude and pervasive.