By Eric Mochoge | Project Leader
In this parts of the world starting from the month of June to August many boys aged between 11 and 14 face the "CUT". Many young boys have preferred a street version of facing the CUT that is somehow easier that the traditional one.
The “CUT” locally known as “khukheba” is a traditional circumcision ceremony that involves the initiates to be moving around with metal wrist bands and bells, followed by huge crowds of people singing traditional songs.
The eve of the day that boy faces the “CUT” is an overnight ceremony that involves the boy ringing the bells to an ecstatic jeering crowd for the best part of the night, the boy has to endure all forms of obscenities and occasional slaps from uncles notwithstanding the enduring strain of ringing bells. There is a lot of indulgence in the traditional local brew called “Busaa” by the crowd who are often very disorderly and rowdy. It all ends in the morning when the boy is socked in cold water and smeared with mud before being marched naked to face the knife.
It’s a harrowing experience for young boys who have to be taunted through the whole process christened as the way to manhood.
We have encountered many boys who decided to run away from home and do it on the streets. They live in an unhealthy conditions that sometimes leads to the wounds becoming septic, we have had 30 attending our street-smart program as we provide medical care.
Unfortunately since they escaped the traditional route they are unwilling to return home for fear of the repercussions. We have rescued several and now on a truce brokering mission with parents hoping to reunite them.
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