Rwanda has stepped up efforts to promote medical male circumcision – the removal of the foreskin. Several studies have proven that circumcision reduces the risk of acquiring HIV in men. Dennis Agaba spoke to university students to share their views on the importance of male circumcision.

Claude Nshimiyimana, Inilak. ‘I think parents shouldn’t even let their kids reach to that age where they have to decide for themselves, whether to get circumcised or not.’

Junior Rwasibo, St. Lawrence University. ‘From what I hear, circumcision reduces the risk of getting some types of sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV and genital herpes. That alone is enough reason for every male to consider it as a great option.’

Dan Mutara, CBE.

‘People always hide the point that it is too painful, thus getting the reason not to get circumcised. But wait; what’s more painful than to live all your life being at risk? Circumcision is safe and clean.’

Pacific Iradukunda, AUCA Masoro. ‘Circumcision is an ideal way of being hygienic and safe from health problems.’

Ronald Rutagengwa, VTCT. ‘I believe circumcision is of great importance to any male’s health.

I haven’t seen or heard of any further consequence of being circumcised but I have heard several negative and life threatening impacts of not being circumcised.’