Church leaders, civil society organizations, and community opinion leaders have strongly advised parents to prioritize organized centers for the rite of passage for children undergoing circumcision, following a recent fatality.
Bishop James Njenga, Chairman of the Voice of Men and Children Network, stated that various religious institutions have established dedicated rite of passage centers specifically to prevent the mishandling or abuse of initiates.
He emphasized that churches arrange for professional speakers to counsel the young men and for certified doctors to perform the circumcision, ensuring both physical and moral safety.
Bishop Njenga urged parents to plan for the rite of passage well in advance, noting that many churches begin advertising their programs in early October, with ceremonies typically administered in late November.
His comments came while condemning a specific incident in which an initiate was allegedly mishandled, tortured, and later died in Ngarariga village, Limuru sub-county.
“We are not supposed to be hearing cases of mishandling, torture, and deaths of initiates in this age and time,” the cleric stated. “It is so sad to report deaths, especially in areas where people are seemingly enlightened.
” He added, “We have organized circumcision centers, especially in our churches, so as to nurture our boy child. Parents with boys who want to undergo circumcision should start preparing early to select a safe, organized venue.”
Last week, it was reported that Samuel Karanja died as a result of alleged torture by young men who were serving as guardians, or “carers,” after his circumcision.
Area resident Samuel Kigamba confirmed that the initiate will be laid to rest on Friday.
Kigamba appealed to the community, well-wishers, and relatives to support the bereaved family, noting their needy circumstances. He added that the burial committee is meeting daily at the family’s home in Ngarariga, near the public cemetery.
“We were deeply saddened by the incident. The family is urgently looking for help to prepare the funeral,” Kigamba said.
Another resident, Simon Njenga, reported that the two young men who were supervising the deceased escaped immediately after the incident.
He confirmed that police are actively searching for the suspects and, once arrested, they will face appropriate charges as investigations into the death continue.
