Given the dynamic nature of Kenya's dating scene, there seems to be a lot of misguided information disguised as helpful advice to the married. Widespread unemployment, the ever-rising cost of living, constantly diminishing morals, amongst other occurring phenomena seem to be directly or indirectly affecting relationships.
There seems to be a rising infatuation with socialites and 'mpango wa kandos'. Young ladies are openly and consciously breaking marriages just because they can and for a little cash benefit on the side. Broke young men, on the other hand, are finding solace in wealthy older women for more or less the same reasons as their female counterparts.
Given this evident societal degradation, the moral fabric is becoming slim next to non-existent. However, given our African descent, the onus of keeping the family together falls on the woman. The wives are the core pillars of the households and seem to be the most affected by the competition from the younger ladies for their husband's attention.
Here are some things that Kenyan wives should do if they want to keep their husbands from having a wandering eye:
1. There's only one head
'Too many cooks spoil the broth'- it would be wise to heed this proverb. One of the partners has to submit to the other, the family needs a leader and there can only be one leader. Let your man be the man. Challenging his authority will only push him away.
2. Appreciate your man
Men have egos and every experienced woman knows this. Once you know how to appreciate your man and acknowledge his efforts you enable his drive to keep going and getting better. Calling him sweet names and showering him with love and respect might just be the magic wand you've been missing.
3. Act the good ambassador
Lots of Kenyan women tear down their husband's reputations in the presence of outsiders and other relatives. Being supportive and always speaking highly of him even when he's out of earshot is what healthy relationships are all about.
4. Respect your mother-in-law
There's a very strong bond between mother and son that begins from the child's formative years all the way to adulthood. This bond should never be taken for granted, disrespecting your husband's mother will definitely not win you any points with him.
5. Good cooking
The fastest and surest road to any man's heart is through the pot, your pot. How's your cooking? Does he like it? A woman should know how to prepare his man with his favourite dishes with ease and perfection. Never underestimate the power of the pot, especially when dating an African man.
6. Never delegate your wifely duties
Kenyan women have the inkling to always let the house-helps do all the household chores in the house even those that are basically made for the wife. Like cooking and serving him food- never allow your maid to serve your husband food.
7. Romance should never burn out
Intimacy is one of the foundations that hold relationships in place. It's easier for partners in long-term relationships to forget the importance of romance. You should keep your husband interested in you both physically and emotionally.