Government has condemned the deaths of South African boys as a result of initiation practices but can they have a plan if they don’t have the facts?
The practice, which entails the removal of part or all of the foreskin of the penis, is widespread among Southern Africans as an initiation rite.
It is is the state’s responsibility to ensure that cultural practices comply with the Bill of Rights, writes Ria Nonyana-Mokabane.
With terrible predictability the beginning of South Africa’s winter brings with it another batch of circumcision-related deaths.
Parliament will probably debate the deaths of initiates at the end of the month, says the ANC chief whip’s office.
President Jacob Zuma has expressed shock and outrage at the deaths of 27 boys who attended initiation schools in Mpumalanga.
A multimillion-dollar drive to circumcise the majority of Swazi males between the age of 15 and 49 within a year has failed to reach its target.
American doctors say evidence suggests that circumcision is the kindest cut. But why then is it causing controversy around the world?
HIV activists from Africa and the US have called for a rapid increase in voluntary medical male circumcision in Africa to reduce new infections.
The threat of Aids has convinced a Zambian clansman, Jonathan Mumena, to do what is safest for his people. Mia Malan reports.
Jewish and Muslim leaders have united in their condemnation of a German court’s decision to in effect outlaw the circumcision of boys.