The boy-child conversation has been building up in the recent past, some to express the plight, and some to provide a solution to the problem. In most cases, this conversation brings out the aspect of ‘too many’ girl empowerment programs that have worked against the boy child but in reality, the boy child is an endangered species, not only physically but also spiritually. The fight begins in the spirit then it manifests in the physical. So as we look for solutions for the boy-child, let us do that both spiritually and physically.
Bishop Charles Muturi of ACK, Mount Kenya South Diocese says the boy child needs to be let into conversations, opportunities, and platforms where young men can begin to walk in purpose. According to the Bishop, there should be intentionality in solving the boy child’s plight. Bishop Charles Muturi says that as a country we should begin by providing opportunities that intend to make a man out of the boy such as enrolling them into disciplined forces or institutions such as the National Youth Service, the police, or even the military.
He says that is one way of bringing up a disciplined community. Secondly, Bishop Charles recommends that once they are put through rehabilitation, then they should be given a stepping stone to start a business or find employment. Leaving the boy child in the streets after taking them through rehabilitation is often the undoing of so many programs, they are equipped, but idle. Remember, an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.
SINGLE MOTHER’S ROLE
Mothers who are singly bringing up the boy child should be intentional about it, how they speak to them, and invest in their well-being among many others. Mothers of Sons should talk to their children often, to know what is going on with them, their perspective in life, and even their plans. Hearing out the boy child will assist in facilitating their needs, may it be in education, emotionally, spiritually, and even mentally.
In the case where the mum is not able to handle issues being faced by the boy child, they should get a father figure or guardian; could be an uncle, family friend, spiritual authority, etc. Even as you feel in control of parenting as a single mother to a son or sons, it is important to point them to a father figure. They need to hear from elders of the same gender. It is key to locate a village that will help you in parenting, whether biologically related or not, you need the backing of a village to bring up a well-rounded man.
“If we do not take care of the boy child then it will have a ripple effect on the society. We will not have a family, church, nation, and most importantly a future. A poor available father is better than a rich absent father. I kindly advise fathers alive to be present in their children’s lives and for the single mothers, take care of the boys for the sake of posterity.”
To address challenges faced by the boy child, it is important to foster environments that promote gender equality, encourage emotional intelligence and expression, provide inclusive education, and challenge traditional gender norms. Supporting boys in their individuality, mental health and personal growth can contribute to their overall well-being and help them thrive in various aspects of life.