Exclusive: Prof Ruth Oniang’o on why men should embrace responsibilities
Known for her prowess in matters of nutrition, food systems, and agriculture, Prof Ruth Oniang’o is never shy about speaking her mind.
Having served in various capacities in both the public and private sectors, often in senior positions, the scholar is amused by today’s generation of men.
Though not all, when she compares them with the older generation, Prof Oniang’o notices a significant difference in terms of family and marital responsibilities.
At 78 years old this year, Prof Oniang’o sees a huge contrast among different generations, from the Greatest Generation to the most recent Alpha Generation.
She expresses concern with Millennials, Generation Z, and Alpha men, whom she faults for their dependence on their parents.
While previous generations learned to provide for their families, the current generation seems to be headed in the wrong direction, she states.
“Initially, women used to stay at home, nurturing children and ensuring that everything was in place when men returned home. But nowadays, things have changed,” she observes.
In an exclusive interview with Nairobi News, Prof Oniang’o shares her fears over a generation she believes is overly reliant on their parents and guardians, a behavior they carry into their own families.
“Nowadays, we see men being idle, engaging in politics, and contributing very little to their families. This strips away their dignity and purpose in family and marital life,” she explains.
Her concerns come at a time when the country recently marked International Women’s Day 2024, reflecting on the challenges women face globally.
With Generation Z graduating from colleges and universities, and some already in the workforce, Prof Oniang’o believes it’s time to steer them back on track.
“We need to remind our men of their responsibilities, especially the younger ones. They should not emulate the negative behaviors of some older individuals,” she urges.
A retired Professor of Food Science and Nutrition, Prof Oniang’o is passionate about advocating for the younger generation and emphasizes the importance of African culture alongside education.
“We must cherish the positive aspects of African culture. Men, it’s time to step up, take care of your families, contribute to development, and empower our women,” she emphasizes.
Reflecting on the roles of men and women during her youth, she emphasizes the importance of both genders fulfilling their responsibilities.
“Women play a crucial role in food systems. We need to celebrate them because, without food, we cannot survive. In the past, it was men who hunted and provided food for the family,” she recalls.
Born on September 9, 1946, Prof Ruth Khadaya Oniang’o served as a nominated Member of Parliament for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party between 2003 and 2007.
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