Influence of Male circumcision on sexual Behaviour of luo men in relation to the Spread of HIV/AIDSs: a case of Maranda sub– County, Kenya

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of male circumcision on sexual behaviour of Luo men, in relation to sexual behavior in relation to the spread of HIV/ AIDS. The study examined the use of contraceptives among circumcised and uncircumcised Luo men, the number of sexual partners among circumcised and uncircumcised men, whether male circumcision had an influence on widow inheritance, and compared the level of involvement of the circumcised and uncircumcised Luo men in HIV/AIDS sensitization process in relation to the spread of HIV/AIDS. The researcher was guided by the activity theory which provides for a dynamic and dialectical perspective on the relationship between the individual and society. It highlights the fact that human mind develops within human social activity and human practices such as sexual practices which are considered in the HIV/AIDS literature as ‘individual’, could be analyzed in relation to the activity (community) of which they are a part. The study was carried out in Maranda subcounty in four sampled locations- North Sakwa, South Sakwa, West Sakwa and Central Sakwa. Simple random sampling was applied in each of the four locations to ensure that each respondent had an equal chance of being included in the study. A pre-test of the data collection instruments was conducted to ensure validity and reliability. Study findings indicated that although circumcision has caused some changes in the sexual lives of Luo men, HIV prevalence is still highest in the region. Culture still plays a bigger role in the sexual activities among Luo men and any intervention geared towards HIV/AIDS prevention must first address the underlying cultural practices. This study adopted a descriptive survey design approach. The study targeted a population of 63,030 men aged between 15 and 49 years old. Respondents were picked from each of the four wards using simple random sampling, translating to 397 men. Structured questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data. The collected data was edited and errors and omissions corrected. The schedules were prepared for tabulation while the tabulated data was analyzed using the statistical SPSS software. From the study, it was noted that respondents had more than one sexual partner which prompted them to use condoms.. It was found that they used condoms often because of the influence from their peers who opined that circumcision made them better sex performers and that, the use of condoms was less pleasurable. Respondents engaged in polygamous relationships due to the traditional polygamous practices and the high number of single women in the area compared to men. This behavior of polygamy has increased the spread of HIV/AIDS that has increased deaths. The practice of wife inheritance was found to promote the spread of HIV/AIDS leading to increased deaths. The study also found that respondents were involved in sensitization through awareness talks; because most people went to churches and also attended workshops and seminars.