Avoid risky sexual practices, leaders tell youth

By Renson Buluma and Patrick Muriungi

Youths who were recently circumcised have been warned against irresponsible sexual behavior.

Leaders in Busia urged them to behave responsibly to avoid contracting HIV and Aids during Christmas.

Led by Mjini ward councilor Tony Onyango, the civic leaders said circumcised youth should not take advantage of the initiation to practice unsafe sex.

"Findings that circumcision reduces chances of contracting disease should not be used as a licence to indulge in unprotected sex," said Mr Onyango.

They said Busia had one of the highest prevalence due to its proximity to the border.

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Many youth in Busia have opted for circumcision following a call by Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The leaders spoke during celebrations to mark this year’s lighting of mayor Christmas tree at Busia Town Hall. Labour Assistant Minister Sospeter Ojaamong was present.

The legislator urged councillors to be more transparent in their duties.

He said the local council had not been able to provide services.

"Since the establishment of this council 20 years ago, there has not been any viable project initiated," he said.

The MP challenged the council to spend the Local Authority Transfer Fund to build schools.

Meanwhile, more than 300 youths from the Meru have graduated after successfully completing a three-week safe male circumcision programme organised by the Methodist Church.

During the graduation at Kaaga Boys’ High School, Bishop Rev William Muriuki of the Kaaga Synod lauded parents for entrusting the church with their children.

He urged more well wishers to offer logistical support to the venture and ensure boys in the community do not undergo dangerous and risky practices associated with traditional initiation.

Muriuki, however, said there were many organisations conning donors by initiating bogus health programmes for youth.

He noted that under those bogus programmes, initiates were not brought up according to tenets of the society.