Elders in Nganduri village of Kirima, Mbeti South Ward of Mbeere South Constituency, Embu County have decried the unconventional relationships between elderly women and young boys.
The local Kirima Elders for Peace group members expressed concerns, observing a trend they deem as unsettling and contrary to cultural norms.
“Our customs dictate respect for age and traditional family structures. This deviation sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the values we hold dear,” said Murango Ndaru, an elder.
Samson Njagi, another elder said the allure of financial success, particularly among young men engaged in miraa and quarry businesses, has led to a paradigm shift in relationship dynamics within the community.
“Elderly women, drawn to the financial success of these young men, are willing to defy societal conventions in pursuit of stability. In return, they offer these young men sexual satisfaction making it hard for many of these young men to marry,” he added.
The issue, according to elders, extends beyond mere moral qualms. Many express fears about the long-term consequences on the social dynamics and cohesion of the locals.
“These relationships blur the lines of authority and disrupt the natural order of our community. If things continue as they are, our future as a community is doomed,” said James Mugo.
Mugo noted that there was a rise in drugs and substance abuse among the young generation in the area.
To promote societal norms, the elders have started holding monthly rallies at Nganduri market where they publicly denounce unconventional relationships and drug usage among other indiscipline cases.
The elders warned of the population impact of the elderly-young love trend, a statement echoed by area assistant chief Edith Njeru.
The administrator extended heartfelt congratulations to the elders for their unwavering dedication to preserving tradition and upholding societal norms within the region.
She urged the elders to continue addressing the underlying socio-economic factors driving these relationships, fostering dialogue and understanding among villagers.
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