A recent morning discussion on Classic 105 FM, hosted by Maina Kageni and co-host Mwalimu King’ang’i, brought to light what was described as a significant "generational problem" affecting Kenyan men aged between 30 and 35.
The conversation drew numerous calls and messages detailing widespread fatigue, lack of motivation, and socio-economic struggles within this demographic.
Background to the Debate
The discussion was initiated after feedback indicated that many men in this age bracket are experiencing a mysterious sense of weariness.
The hosts acknowledged they were uncovering a problem they previously did not realise existed.Callers shared their personal experiences, providing a snapshot of the challenges facing young adult men in the country.
The Pervasive Feeling of Exhaustion
A major symptom reported was an overwhelming sense of tiredness. One 35-year-old man stated that he wakes up feeling exhausted by everything.
He added that he feels Nairobi is draining him, and he now considers moving upcountry to herd cattle, finding even the simple act of going to work difficult.
His lack of consistency has led to him receiving three disciplinary warnings at his job.
READ ALSO: Why More Kenyan Men in Their 30s Are Opting to Stay Single
Another caller, aged 31, expressed a similar sentiment, fearing marriage and feeling uncertain about his future due to having "no inheritance".
“I’m 35 years old. I wake up feeling tired of everything, I'm even scared to marry,” the caller confessed.
Confusion and the Dating Divide
The generational issue extends into financial planning and relationships. The men are described as confused over whether they should prioritise buying a car or purchasing land.
Women participating in the conversation noted that men aged 30 to 35 are often seen as "delusional about their energy levels" and what they can financially offer.
Some female callers, including a 35-year-old, reported actively avoiding dating their age mates, preferring to date men aged 45 and above. Younger women, specifically those aged 22, are reportedly dating men in their 50s.
“They are just there, they are confused. Should they buy a car? Should they buy land?” a lady caller said about men in their 30s.
This situation leaves the men in the 30–35 age group feeling unwanted, with one contributor claiming that "no one wants them". They are viewed as depleted, compared metaphorically to a car with an exhausted battery that "cannot start even if you push it down a slope".
Suggested Causes for the Crisis
Callers and commentators offered several hypotheses for the fatigue and low drive observed in this group. A prevalent theory pointed to the widespread consumption of alcohol.
Some suggested that heavy drinking of cheap spirits, especially when coupled with low monthly earnings (reported salaries ranged from Ksh 20,000 to Ksh 40,000), depletes their energy.
ALSO READ: Kenyan Men Are Intimidated by Successful Women - Vera Sidika Rants
Other suggested reasons included poor lifestyle choices and diet, specifically lacking proper nutrition and consuming excessive street food.
Mental and physical health problems, as well as the natural slowing of metabolism, were also suggested, though some dismissed metabolism as a primary factor,, given the young age of 35.
One contributor argued that the perceived tiredness stems from laziness and a lack of desire to work. It was noted that some young people default on job opportunities very quickly.
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!