‘The Kindest Cut'

Actor Kagiso Modupe talks about his decision to get medically circumcised at 33 for his wife’s wellbeing – a move that’s caused waves among traditionalists

- Molife Kumona

IT’S ONE of the most sensitive sub­jects in South Africa, steeped in secrecy and tradition. For thou­sands of youngsters who make the trek into the mountains each year, it’s also a sign that you’re a real man – and those who opt to go the medical circumcision route are of­ ten regarded as “cowards” by traditionalists. Especially if they choose to delay the cut and not get circumcised around the age of 18.

So when Scandal! actor Kagiso Modupe recently announced he was getting medically circumcised at age 33, the news got a mixed reaction. Some applauded, while others suggested he’d now merely be a big boy as it was not being done the traditional way.

However, Kagiso, well­known for his role as Mangi Nyathi on the e.tv soapie, is not bothered by the criticism, saying the time was ripe for him to get what he calls “the kindest cut”.

Not only is he getting circumcised, he has called on 2 000 men to join him and is the driving force behind #Zwakala­ Skeem (Come with Me Brother), an initiative that will provide free circum­cision at 200 clinics around the country on Saturday 11 March. There’s no particular significance to the number 2 000, he says – his only aim is for at least 10 men to be circumcised at each of the 200 clinics. Talking to us days before he’s due to have the procedure done, the father of two shares his thinking on circumcision.

“Manhood and circumcision have never been tied together in my head – they are not a part of my belief system. I have never and will never consider my self any less of a man because I wasn’t circumcised when I was younger.