Global Journal of Biology, Agriculture & Health Sciences

Abstract

ACCEPTABILITY OF MEDICAL MALE CIRCUMCISION WITHIN THE APOSTOLIC MARANGE SECT IN ZIMBABWE; A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Oliver T Gore, Manase Kudzai Chiweshe, Manenji Mangundu, Agnes Mangundu

According to WHO/UNAIDS 2007, it is estimated that male circumcision can reduce female-to-male HIV transmission by 60%, but some faith based organisation may not be practicing male circumcision. Therefore the study assessed the Marange’s Apostolic Sect’s knowledge and attitudes on male circumcision (MC) as an additional strategy in preventing HIV/AIDS transmission through heterosexual intercourse from women to men. A qualitative study was undertaken using focus group discussions, in depth interviews, and key informant interviews with participants from the Marange apostolic sect. A total sample size of 134 participants were selected using purposive sampling and snowball sampling techniques. The findings indicated lack of knowledge among the Marange apostolic sect members on male circumcision. MC was understood from a religious stand point by the Marange apostolic sect members. A general nonacceptance attitude due to MC being perceived as sinning and promoting adultery was noted. MC was therefore irrelevant as the religious group believed in the absence of HIV within its members due to perceived effective HIV prevention practices within the sect. Barriers to MC uptake including perceived lack of benefits of MC such as sexual pleasure, pain during and after the MC procedure and risk compensation were identified. The study recommended involvement of church leadership in MC programming and in encouraging Marange apostolic sect members to utilize biomedical services, increasing enrolment of sect members into higher education, and HIV prevention awareness programmes including counseling.

Published Date: 2014-10-02;