15 Reasons Why Men in Kenya Are Abandoning Work

The issue of men abandoning work in Kenya is a complex one with multifaceted causes. This phenomenon is influenced by a combination of economic, social, psychological, political, technological, and personal factors.

Economic Factors

Low Wages

Inadequate compensation compared to the rising cost of living can make formal employment less attractive. Many men find that the wages they earn in formal jobs do not meet their basic needs, especially in the face of inflation and rising prices for essential goods and services.

Job Insecurity

Contractual work, layoffs, and economic downturns can lead to a sense of financial instability. The precarious nature of many jobs in Kenya, coupled with the cyclical nature of the economy, can make men hesitant to commit to formal employment.

Limited Opportunities

A lack of suitable job openings, especially in rural areas, can force men to seek alternative means of livelihood. In many parts of Kenya, especially in rural areas, there are limited opportunities for formal employment, particularly for men with limited education or skills. This can lead men to turn to informal work or self-employment.

Social Factors

Cultural Expectations

Traditional gender roles and expectations can limit men’s career choices and aspirations. In many Kenyan communities, there are strong cultural expectations about the roles that men and women should play. These expectations can limit men’s career options and make it difficult for them to pursue certain types of jobs.

Social Pressure

Peer pressure to engage in risky or informal activities can divert men from formal employment. Men may feel pressure from their peers to engage in risky or informal activities, such as illegal activities or informal work. This can make it difficult for them to focus on formal employment.

Family Responsibilities

The burden of providing for families can push men towards informal work or self-employment. Men often bear the primary responsibility for providing for their families. This can make it difficult for them to pursue formal employment, especially if the wages are low or the job is unstable.

Psychological Factors

Lack of Motivation

Discouragement from repeated job failures or limited opportunities can lead to a loss of motivation. Men who have experienced repeated job failures or who feel that there are limited opportunities for advancement may become discouraged and lose motivation.

Mental Health Challenges

Untreated mental health issues can affect work performance and job satisfaction. Mental health challenges, such as depression or anxiety, can have a significant impact on a man’s ability to perform well at work and maintain a positive attitude towards employment.

Addiction

Substance abuse can impair a man’s ability to maintain employment. Substance abuse can lead to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and job loss.

Political Factors

Corruption

Corruption in the workplace can discourage men from pursuing formal employment. Corruption can make it difficult for men to find and keep jobs, especially in the public sector.

Insecurity

Political instability or conflict can create a hostile environment for job seekers. Political instability or conflict can make it dangerous or difficult for men to seek and maintain employment.

Technological Factors

Digital Divide

Lack of access to technology and digital skills can limit employment opportunities. In many parts of Kenya, there is a significant digital divide. This means that many men do not have access to the technology or skills that are necessary for many modern jobs.

Automation

Advancements in technology can lead to job displacement and create a sense of obsolescence. As technology continues to advance, there is a risk that many jobs will be automated. This can lead to job displacement and a sense of obsolescence among men who are unable to adapt to the changing job market.

Personal Factors

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Some men may prefer the autonomy and flexibility of self-employment. Many men in Kenya have an entrepreneurial spirit and may prefer the autonomy and flexibility of self-employment over the structure and routine of a formal job.

Migration

The desire for better opportunities abroad can lead men to abandon domestic employment. Some men may migrate to other countries in search of better job opportunities or higher wages.