Media personality and digital content creator Andrew Kibe has sparked conversation in Kenya by urging parents to reconsider the long-standing practice of circumcising boys.
Speaking with popular radio host Jacquey Nyaminde, known as Wibroda, Kibe described the tradition as outdated and questioned its relevance in contemporary society. He argued that the practice, once justified by cultural and health narratives, has lost its significance and is no longer beneficial.
“I find circumcision an outdated practice. I believe we should stop circumcising our children immediately. There is no meaning behind it anymore, it has been debunked, and it provides no real benefits,” Kibe stated.
Highlighting the historical context, Kibe criticized those who continue to advocate for the ritual. He claimed that earlier arguments promoting circumcision were misleading and lacked factual grounding.
“Unajua zamani walikuja wakatudanganya, unajua ku-circumcise inasaidia… hiyo ni uwongo. It was a lie,” he remarked.
Kibe also addressed the societal pressures that perpetuate circumcision. He noted that contemporary social dynamics, particularly the expectations placed on single mothers, often influence the decision to circumcise boys, with modern assurances such as anesthesia cited to reduce pain.
“There is no reason to circumcise your boys. But society has adjusted to the single woman, the single mother; society now markets products, and circumcision is one of those products,” he explained.
The media personality revealed that he will not circumcise his own son, emphasizing his personal stance against the practice. He further pointed out that many mothers are persuaded by medical assurances, yet he remains firm in his decision.
“As a man, I am not going to take my son through that process. But as a woman, you are first told there’s international and local anesthesia, and that he won’t feel the pain,” Kibe said.
Circumcision in Kenya: Tradition Versus Modern Perspectives
Kibe’s comments arrive amid ongoing debates in Kenya about balancing cultural traditions with contemporary values. On November 13, 2025, in Kiambu County, Elder Shamte Munyua, chairman of Kiama Kia Ma, reinforced the stance that churches should not intervene in traditional initiation rituals.
“We have said it before, and we are repeating it: churches should stick to their lane, that of spreading the gospel, and leave the circumcision of boys to the elders,” Elder Munyua stated.
The discussion reflects a deeper divide between traditional and religious authorities. Elders argue that circumcision and associated teachings preserve cultural heritage and instill discipline, while church leaders advocate for faith-based guidance to prepare young men for modern challenges.
As Kenya navigates its cultural and societal evolution, voices like Andrew Kibe’s add a critical perspective to conversations about children’s rights, parenting, and the relevance of longstanding traditions in the 21st century.
