PSI/Zimbabwe is the largest contributor. The pilot started in 2009 in five sites across the country. The target for the pilot was 2 000 in six months but this was increased to 3 000 because of the overwhelming response.
The target group is between the ages of 13 and 29 years because this is where the HIV incidence is highest.
Sinokuthemba Xaba, the National Co-ordinator, told The Zimbabwean that 31 000 men had been circumcised to date and the number is expected to reach 56 000 by the end of the year.
“A big campaign is planned for August 2011 which will be happening in different parts of the country. It will be targeting the traditional groups as well as the general population. Over the school holidays successful campaigns were conducted where 7 000 young men were circumcised,” Xaba said.
Researches have shown that men who are circumcised have 60% chances of not contracting HIV when compared to those uncircumcised.
Male circumcision has therefore been recommended as crucial in preventing HIV prevalence.
Post published in: Health