Petronella Sibeene
19 August 2008
Windhoek — Experts from across the country are gathered in the capital today (Tuesday) to review the results of the recent situation assessment on male circumcision and HIV/AIDS in Namibia.
Discussions will determine the development of a national policy on the subject.
Two years ago, WHO's announcement that circumcising men reduces their chances of contracting HIV by 60 percent sparked interest and debate in the field of HIV/AIDS.
Minister of Health and Social Services Dr Richard Kamwi last year informed Parliament about the three clinical trials conducted in Africa.
A situation assessment of Namibia that looked at the attitudes, perceptions, potential impact and resource implications of rolling out voluntary male circumcision services in Namibia was carried out.
The situation assessment found that only 21 percent of adult men are circumcised with the majority being from Omaheke and Kunene regions.
The low figures could be attributed to the practice being cultural.
It was found that many individuals understood the potential health benefits of male circumcision while also being concerned about the risks in the process.
Among many other benefits of circumcision, Dr Nelao Amagulu said, is that removing the foreskin reduces the ability of HIV to penetrate the skin of the penis.
The stakeholders' meeting to be attended by Government, traditional leaders, non-governmental organisations and other experts will discuss multi-faceted issues regarding the rolling out of such a programme in the country.
According to Dr Amagulu, there is fear among health experts that men who are circumcised might feel "protected" and instead indulge in risky sexual behaviour. She emphasised that appropriate messaging is essential.
Male circumcision does not provide complete protection against HIV infection. Circumcised men can still become infected with the virus and, if HIV-positive, can infect their sexual partners.
"We are not saying get circumcised and throw away other preventative strategies - this should be seen as a tool within a comprehensive package," added Dr Amagola.
Experts estimate that 80 000 new infections will be avoided between 2008 and 2025 if a strategy targeting adolescents and adult men is used.
Dr Amagulu says that HIV prevalence rate in the country remains high despite different strategies being in place.
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