Abstract
Male circumcision (MC) has been recogni
s ed as an effective strategy for reducing HIV
transmission, yet its uptake remains low . Despite its inclusion in Namibia's national HIV
prevention strategy since 2007, the uptake of v oluntary m edical male circumcision (VMMC)
remains low, particularly among non circumcising communities like those in the
Otjozondjupa region of Namibia . Understa nding the knowledge and attitudes of target
populations is crucial for designing effective intervention strategies.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude
s of males aged 20 to 40 years
towards male circumcision in Otjiwarongo, Namibia.
Methods: A community
based, cross sectional descriptive study was conducted among 359
males aged 20 40 years in Otjiwarongo, selected through a multi stage sampling technique.
Data w as collected between March and May 2024 using a pre tested, structured, cl osed
ended questionnaire administered through face to face interviews. Data analysis was
performed using Epi Info version 3.5.1 and Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics, chi
square tests, and binary logistic regression were used to analy s e the data.
Res
ults: The study found that 84.4% (n=303) of participants had heard about male
circumcision, primarily through health facilities, NGOs and electronic media. However,
knowledge was mixed; while 38.1% agreed that MC offers partial protection against
HIV/STIs, a significant proportion (61.9%) disagreed or were unsure. The circumcision
prevalence was 47.9% (n=172). Key predictors of circumcision status included rural
residence (AOR: 0.109, p<0.001 ). Attitudes were significantly associated with circumcision
uptak e, with those encouraged to undergo MC being more likely to be circumcised
(p<0.001). A concerning 15.3% of respondents believed circumcised men could safely have
sex without condoms.
Conclusion and Recommendations: While awareness of MC is high in Otjiwar
ongo, deep
seated knowledge gaps, cultural factors and misconceptions about its protective efficacy,
remain significant barriers to uptake. The study recommends targeted, culturally sensitive
health education campaigns to dispel myths, address specific kno wledge gaps and promote
the correct understanding of MC as a complementary HIV prevention strategy, not a
standalone solution. Interventions should be tailored to addres s the specific barriers
identified within different ethnic and residential groups.