This archive report was first published on 7 January 2020.
On January 7, 2020, a shocking incident occurred in Itare village, Kisii County, where a 10-year-old boy circumcised himself, leaving residents in shock.
The boy's decision was allegedly triggered by constant mocking from a girl, who claimed he would be like ODM boss Raila Odinga, who had allegedly missed out on the Presidency due to being 'uncircumcised.'
Staunch believers of the rite of passage reportedly believe that a person who hasn't undergone the ceremony is unfit for public office.
With his parents unable to raise Ksh.1,000 for his initiation rite, the young boy took matters into his own hands, using a kitchen knife to perform the cut nearly a month ago.
Speaking at his home in Kisii, the Class 2 pupil explained that he was forced to take action to avoid discrimination by his peers who were circumcised during the December holiday.
“Girls in my area mocked me daily for not being a man enough and were making fun of me every time,” he reportedly said.
Following his deteriorating health, the boy was taken to a local dispensary and later referred to the Kisii County Referral Hospital, but his parents took him back home due to medical fees.
Samwel Momanyi, an activist in Kisii County, is now urging the government to intervene and help the boy, who requires specialized treatment as he is undergoing difficulty urinating.
