Vasectomy Talk Sparks Debate Among Kenyan Men and Celebrities

A growing number of Kenyan men are opting for vasectomies, according to the latest data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS). The trend is stirring debate across the country—and celebrities aren’t shying away from weighing in.

Among those firmly against the idea is comedian Mulamwah, who says a vasectomy doesn’t align with his vision for the future.

“That’s not something I’d ever do,” he said. “I want more kids. I’m building a big house back in the village—who’s going to fill it if not my children?”

The father of three currently has children with two of his exes, Ruth K and Carol Sonnie, and had a first child with a former partner who sadly passed away.

On the other hand, fellow comedian and content creator Oga Obinna has revealed he’s seriously considering the procedure. Obinna, a father of five with three different women, says it might be the right step for him.

Yet not all public figures are convinced. Actor Melvin Alusa, who has eight children, says vasectomy has never crossed his mind as an option.

His brother, Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime Barasa, takes a more balanced view. Speaking on his show Bald Box alongside rugby player Dennis Ombachi and Dr Reign, Bien admitted that while the thought of vasectomy is daunting, he’s not entirely against it.

“Most men ask if it’s reversible. I’m not an expert, but I’m open to the idea,” Bien said. “Ideally, I’d prefer my wife undergo a procedure, but I’m not ruling it out.”

The Numbers Behind the Talk

The 2023 Economic Survey shows that vasectomy uptake in Kenya more than doubled within a year—from 248 to 557 men. While still a small figure, it’s sparked widespread discussion.

According to the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS), fewer than 1% of Kenyan men have undergone the procedure. Dr. Kireki Omanwa of KOGS notes that even after counselling, only one in 100 men agrees to it—many of whom choose to keep it private due to stigma.

Common concerns include fears about masculinity, reduced sexual performance, and permanent infertility. However, experts say these fears are largely unfounded.

Debunking the Myths

A vasectomy involves cutting or sealing the vas deferens—the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. It’s a minor outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia and takes about 20 minutes.

According to Penn Medicine in the US, the procedure does not affect a man’s libido, erections, or orgasms. Most men resume normal activities within days and sexual activity within a week.

However, sterilization isn’t immediate. Doctors recommend using other forms of contraception until a semen test confirms a zero sperm count—typically after 20 ejaculations or two months.

Reversals are possible but far more complex, often requiring 4–6 hours of surgery with no guaranteed results. Alternatively, techniques like surgical sperm retrieval paired with IVF have shown success rates of up to 98%.

The Bottom Line

As more Kenyan men weigh the pros and cons, vasectomy remains a deeply personal—and often controversial—choice. While some view it as a responsible step in family planning, others still associate it with cultural taboos and fear of judgment. For now, the conversation is only growing louder.