The former radio presenter, who relocated to the US with her children after leaving Royal Media Services, said many Kenyans abroad silently struggle with parenting responsibilities despite the perception that life overseas is easier.
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According to Jeridah, the American system heavily depends on parents managing nearly everything on their own, especially childcare and household duties.
“America is meant for fathers, mothers, and children. Single parenting in America is hard,” Jeridah said.
She explained that, unlike in Kenya, where many households can access affordable domestic help or support from relatives, parents in the US often juggle work, school schedules, cooking, and cleaning alone.
Jeridah Andayi // Mpasho“You Must Do Everything Yourself”
Jeridah noted that childcare costs and housekeeping services in the US are expensive, making it difficult for many parents to outsource help.
She painted a picture familiar to many diaspora families — waking up early to prepare children for school, rushing to work, picking them up from daycare, and then returning home to continue with house chores.
“You pick the baby from daycare after work and then go home to do house chores,” she said.
She added that children in the US are raised to become independent at a young age because parents often have limited support systems.
“If you are alone with children, the struggle is real. No one should lie to you,” she added.
Fans Share Mixed Reactions
Jeridah’s remarks triggered conversation online, especially among Kenyans living abroad who related to her experience.
One user, identified as Heather Njuguna, said Kenya still offers an advantage because of community support and affordable help.
“That’s one underrated blessing in Kenya. You also get to rest after work. Majuu, one partner may have to stop working to take care of the children,” she wrote.
Another social media user, Rhozzy, agreed and compared the experience to life in the United Kingdom.
“Same as the UK, you can’t do it on your own,” she commented.
Others, however, argued that the challenges are not unique to America.
“That’s how single parenthood is all over,” another user identified as phi-phy wrote.
Meanwhile, some parents abroad said the experience depends on the organisation and financial stability.
“I do the same drop and pick up, sports, play dates, and cooking. It’s not as hard as people put it,” said Njeri Eve.
Jeridah Andayi // MpashoJeridah Previously Spoke About Silent Struggles of Mothers
The discussion comes weeks after Jeridah shared an emotional Mother’s Day message urging people to check on mothers silently battling guilt and emotional pain.
The media personality said some mothers constantly question themselves despite raising their children with love and discipline.
“Some mothers ask themselves every single day, ‘Where did I go wrong?’” she wrote.
