This archive report was first published on 4 October 2019.
West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo's infamous phrase, 'Kijana fupi, amenona, round,' may seem like a joke, but it highlights a deeper issue in how society treats men and their shortcomings.
Research shows that belly fat poses serious health risks for both men and women, including sleep disorders, colorectal cancer, heart complications, and diabetes. Yet, in Kenya, it's common to praise an overweight man as 'Biggy' or 'Big Daddy,' giving him an ego boost rather than encouraging him to take care of his health.
Women are often complicit in this behavior, accepting praise and accolades for feeding their men well. A married man who can still fit into his bachelor days shirt is considered a disgrace, and women are expected to nurture their men's health and well-being.
However, this approach is a disservice to men, as it perpetuates dishonesty and prevents them from taking responsibility for their health. Men are expected to protect, provide, and lead, but this expectation comes with a price: women suffer terribly when their husbands die, and children who grow up fatherless often suffer psychological trauma.
It's time to tell men the truth, no matter how uncomfortable it is. We've normalized the abnormal by praising men for their licentious behavior, drinking habits, and financial recklessness. It's time to add a new chapter to the Bro Code: telling men the truth about their health, finances, and spirituality.
