For many families, the question of whether children should support their parents after becoming financially stable remains emotional and deeply personal. Across Kenya and many African societies, children are often raised with the understanding that one day they may help their parents in return.
Parent Begging for help // AI generated“My Mum Sacrificed Everything for Me”
“My mum struggled to educate us alone. Now that I can help, I do it happily.”
For Brian, supporting parents is not pressure but gratitude.
Sharon Wanjiku, a university graduate working in digital marketing, shared a similar view.
“African parents invest heavily in their children. I believe returning the favour is part of our culture.”
However, not everyone agreed that support should be mandatory.
Kevin Mwangi, who recently started his own business, argued that many young adults are already overwhelmed by financial responsibilities.
“Life is expensive. Rent, loans, food, and transport are draining people. Support should come from love, not guilt.”
Another respondent, Mercy Atieno, said some parents place unrealistic expectations on their children immediately after they get jobs.
“Sometimes parents expect you to rescue the entire family instantly. That pressure affects mental health.”
Parent Begging for help // AI generatedParents Speak
“You cannot raise a child for over 20 years and then become forgotten.”
“Parents choose to have children. Helping should come willingly It should not feel like repayment.”
