Kenyans React After Top Hospital Reveals Charging Ksh90,000 for Male Circumcision

A photo of doctors conducting a surgery.
A photo of doctors conducting a surgery.
Photo
Financial Fortune

A post shared by a top hospital, revealing that it charges Ksh90,000 for male circumcision, has triggered mixed reactions on social media, with some labelling the amount as too high.

In a notice shared on Wednesday, November 12, the health facility announced a circumcision package for male children of 14 and below.

According to the hospital, while the package runs from November to December this year, it charges Ksh70,000 for local anaesthesia and Ksh90,000 for general anaesthesia.

"We ensure quality care with the package, including the surgeon's fee and theatre charge. Our special Circumcision Package is running from November to December 2025 for neonates up to 14 years," the notice by the facility read.

Surgeons performing surgery on a patient.
Surgeons performing surgery on a patient.
Photo
Benue

The charges quickly drew the attention of Kenyans online, sparking debate on the average price of male circumcision in the country.

Some considered the amount to be exaggerated and exorbitant for what they described as a simple theatre procedure that they claim only took minutes to complete.

"And we've been doing the 15-minute procedure for free, and giving incentives like two pairs of underwear, a Ksh500 for transport reimbursement and a bottle of soda," said an online user.

However, others labelled the amount as fair, stating that other health facilities charge more than Ksh100,000 per male patient who undergoes the surgical procedure.

"The market has given you a variety to choose from according to the size of your pocket," commented an online user, with another adding, "Did they come to your home to ask for your son for circumcision?"

Male circumcision is one of the most widely practised cultures in Kenya; it is always considered a right of passage in some communities, with the practice largely promoted due to its health benefits.

While the traditional method often involves young boys between the ages of 10 and 18, modern circumcision procedures can apply to males of all ages.

In recent years, the government has been championing the Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) for males of all ages, encouraging men to undergo the procedure. 

kenyans SHA state house ruto
Kenyans cheer during the launch of the SHA Sponsorship Programme on Friday, September 19, 2025, in State House, Nairobi.
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