A thought for the boy-child

During a recent dinner conversation, my son expressed frustration over the lack of attention given to the boy child regarding opportunities compared to the girl child. While I understood his perspective, it’s important to acknowledge the significant progress made in protecting and empowering the girl child over the last few years.

This progress has resulted in girls having equal access to education and opportunities, which has helped to prevent harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, early marriages, and child pregnancies. Initiatives like menstrual management have also gained traction, and the Kenyan government recently signed a bill into law providing free sanitary towels to girls who have reached puberty to reduce school absenteeism. Such opportunities were not available to girls ten years.

The business world in Kenya has also made strides to provide opportunities for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. For example, the government has made a 30% provision for these groups in public procurement, and some institutions offer favorable lending terms for businesses with over 50% ownership by women. In addition, it’s encouraging to hear that some organisations have achieved gender parity in leadership positions without even trying, showcasing the potential for progress in the private sector.

However, the rise of alcohol use in rural Kenya, particularly among young men, presents a concerning trend. Many young men spend their days drinking cheap, potentially dangerous brews laced with substances like methanol. These drinks have caused severe health issues, including blindness, paralysis, and even death. While judging these young men is easy, it’s important to consider the underlying factors driving their behavior.

In today’s society, young girls are encouraged to pursue their dreams, and rightfully so. However, we cannot ignore the fact that many young boys seem to lack direction and purpose. Who or what is to blame for this? Is it due to the absence of positive male role models, lack of physical activity, or deficiencies in the education system?

Regardless of the cause, it is clear that something is amiss. While young girls receive an education to achieve success independently, it is crucial to recognise that a balance between masculine and feminine energies is necessary for the proper functioning of society.

As these girls grow up, they may yearn for traditional displays of chivalry and respect from men. Conversely, young boys are not receiving the same encouragement and hope for their futures. Further, this problem transcends cultural boundaries and affects boys in developed countries as well.

We must not neglect the needs of young boys as we continue to advocate for gender equality. All children deserve equal opportunities to succeed and thrive. By acknowledging and addressing the issues facing young boys today, we can work towards creating a more balanced and prosperous society for all.