Reducing Mortality Rate of Traditional Male Circumcision through the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in South Africa

Abstract

This paper investigated the causes of youth mortality during traditional male circumcision practices by Traditional Medical Practitioners (TMPs) in South Africa. A case study approach was used. Six participants were drawn from an entire population of Traditional Medicine Practitioners and young men who have been circumcised by TMPs in less than three years. Data was collected using semi-structured open- ended interview questions to inquire about the rationale for using traditional male circumcision, how the circumcision procedures are carried out and what causes death among the young men (initiates). The findings revealed that traditional male circumcision is a cultural and religious practice of many South Africans. The circumcision process is done by the removal of the foreskin of the penis and this cause excessive bleeding, sometimes leading to death of some initiates. Other causes of death revealed by the study included unskilled TMPs, usage of unsterilized equipment leading to infections and ultimately death. Undisclosed isolated and remote venues where the circumcision practices are undertaken also emerged as a contributing factor to the death among initiates. The results led to the proposal of Traditional Male Circumcision ICT Framework (TMC-ICT Framework) to integrate the services rendered by TMPs during traditional male circumcision practices with services from healthcare professionals in government hospitals to reduce the mortality rate of young initiates.