Kenyan singer and songwriter Jovial has sparked a crucial conversation about men’s mental health, urging women to be more vigilant.
In a recent social media post, the Jeraha hitmaker expressed her concern, noting that being a man in today’s society is often accompanied by immense pressure and emotional strain.
Jovial highlighted the need for women to actively ask their fathers, brothers, sons, and partners how they are doing mentally.
She noted that men, while often perceived as emotionally strong or stoic, may hide their struggles due to societal expectations of masculinity.
“Yesterday I noticed being a man is a tough job, as a woman when I’m frustrated I usually lock myself inside nalia mpaka napata nafuu, I’m a cry baby, ( mnaeza nikodisha) jokes aside!
I hate sharing my problems but the only thing hunipa nguvu ni kule kulia kwangu, some women talk about it. In short women are vocal, emotional and expressive.
Mwanaume akilia he’s weak, mwanamme akifunguka, “wewe ni mwanamme bana” mwanaume ni binadamu, they have feelings.
Tujifunze kuuliza our fathers, our men, brothers and sons if they’re okay. Men don’t speak, others die in silence, it’s simple, are you okay? ” she wrote.
Her message resonated with many of her fans, sparking discussions around the mental health challenges men face, particularly in African cultures where traditional gender roles often discourage men from expressing vulnerability.
Jovial emphasized that men are often expected to shoulder heavy burdens, including financial responsibilities and societal pressures, without much emotional support.
Mental health awareness is a topic that has gained more attention in Kenya in recent years, but discussions around men’s mental health remain limited.
Jovial’s call to action serves as a timely reminder that men, too, need emotional care and a safe space to express their struggles.
The singer’s message has been met with widespread support, with many praising her for using her platform to address such a critical issue.
Fans across social media have expressed gratitude for her candidness, with some men opening up about their own experiences with mental health challenges.
By speaking up, Jovial has contributed to breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and has encouraged more open conversations on the topic in Kenyan society.
